Environment: Set up a work environment that reduces as many distractions as possible.
- Have a designated work space that includes a table and chair.
- Reduce loud noises or movement. (If possible, have younger kids without work responsibilites play in another room or area.)
- If mutliple people are working in the same area use head phones to reduce noise.
- Parents during work times put preferred items away and out of reach. (These can include but not limited to: toys, games, snacks etc.)
Visual Schedule: Create a daily schedule for your child to follow. A typical school day is very consistent and activities are scheduled by the hour. While school is out of session your child is without a consistent routine! A daily schedule will help your child know what to expect next and when their favorite activities are happening.
- Typical activities included in a visual schedule:
- Play times
- Work times
- Sensory breaks
- Meal/snack times
- Bathroom breaks
- Visual schedules can look different depending on the child’s cognitive ability:
- Written on white board
- Pictures and words to show each activity
- Paper and pencil
- Pictures from a child’s voice output device
*If a visual schedule is not enough support try a visual timer to indicate when activities will be started or ended
Breaks: plan breaks throughout your child’s day. Even adults need breaks!
- These can be a sensory, movement, or play breaks.
- Include these in your child’s daily schedule
- Break up larger work packets into smaller work chunks
**Please reach out to your BCBAs for any clarifying questions or materials needed for the implementation of strategies.
