Using Visual Support to help Autistic Individuals

Visual supports have long been recognized as a powerful tool for assisting individuals with autism in better navigating and understanding their environment. Given that many on the autism spectrum are visual thinkers, employing pictorial aids can bridge communication gaps, ease transitions, and foster a sense of predictability. Whether in the classroom, at home, or in the community, these tools have proven transformative for many, enhancing comprehension and facilitating meaningful interactions.

Individuals with autism often face challenges adapting to routine changes, transitioning between activities, focusing on tasks, interacting socially, and expressing themselves.

Why should I use Visual Supports?

Individuals with autism are inherently visual thinkers, possessing a keen ability to recall images and memories. Leveraging pictures for communication, particularly through platforms like Smarty Symbols Studio, can significantly enhance memory skills, social communication abilities, and understanding of their environment and community.

Visual aids like pictures of routines or schedules can simplify transitions, giving the individual a clear picture of current and subsequent activities. Such images can also facilitate self-expression and promote functional communication by depicting aspects of one’s environment. Combining pictures with written words can also be instrumental in bolstering language and vocabulary skills. Moreover, picture communication provides a consistent mode of conveying thoughts, feelings, desires, or needs, potentially reducing behavioral issues.

So, how can you harness the power of images for Visual Supports?

  1. Design a First-Then Board using Smarty Symbols Studio to clarify the sequence of events.
  2. Craft Visual Schedules for daily routines at school and home.
  3. Develop a Positive Reinforcement System.
  4. Offer a Choice Board, enabling the child to make selections regarding food, toys, rewards, and more.
  5. Create flashcards with Smarty Symbols Studio to expand vocabulary, categorize pictures, label nouns and verbs, and engage in matching exercises.
  6. Establish a Token Board.

In a world where effective communication forms the bedrock of understanding and connection, it’s vital to explore and employ methods that resonate with diverse cognitive processes. For individuals with autism, visual supports are not just tools but lifelines, bridging gaps and illuminating pathways to richer interactions. As we delve deeper into the benefits and applications of visual aids, like those provided by expansive symbol libraries, it’s clear that embracing such resources can dramatically transform the lives of those on the autism spectrum. Moving forward, it’s our collective responsibility to ensure that these tools are accessible and tailored to suit every individual, reinforcing the idea that communication is, indeed, a universal right.

Create visual support more efficiently with access to Smarty Symbols Studio

We offer affordable monthly and yearly plans. Take advantage of our yearly plans to save big!

Standard Access

$1099monthly
  • Unlimited Daily Download of 30000 images
  • Access the printing Center and Download
  • Total of $132/year

Standard Access

$$750/month
  • When paid yearly
  • Save $42 each year.
  • Total of $89.99/year

Looking to create your custom visual support?

Get your very own Smarty Symbols Studio Access to  unlimited resources today!

Standard Access

$1099monthly
  • Unlimited Daily Download of 30000 images
  • Access the printing Center and Download
  • Total of $132/year

Standard Access

$$750/month
  • When paid yearly
  • Save $42 each year.
  • Total of $89.99/year