Component 4

Visual Strategies

Teachers often tell us of their frustrations in not being able to get their students to do what they ask them to do. One of our first questions to teachers is, “What type of visuals are you using with your students?” Visual supports and strategies are researched based approaches that can support and enhance communication, improve behavior, develop organizational skills, and increase independence- important tools in every teacher’s toolbox.

For some of us, seeing things is much more powerful and meaningful than hearing them. As research shows, it is critical to use visual strategies when working with students on the autism spectrum. Our experience has taught us that most of our students, even those who are not on the autism spectrum, respond positively to the use of visual strategies. We have found from our experience and the feedback from many professionals that using visual supports and strategies results in quicker acquisition of skills, improved behavior, and enhanced communication for students.