All visuals are copyright protected, created using Smarty Symbols or Microsoft Word. They are intended for informational purposes and are not for in-class use.

​

Augmentative communication systems are highly effective and important in ASD, any language delay (receptive/expressive) as well as in many behavioural issues. You must first decide which will work the best for your child/student. You can carry symbols that you regularly need, such as “stop”, “wait”, “hands to self” etc... on a ring attached to a lanyard around your neck. Do not carry to many or you will be rifling through them and it is not effective.

​

Glue all visuals to card stock and laminate.

• Photographs of real people and objects (better for older students where possible)

• Colour pictures (PECS) real representations or stick (tends to work well with younger students)

• Black & white real representations or stick

• IPAD visual system for ASD (words well if you have the technology)

• A mix  (is probably the most effective)

In ASD or any language delay, if there is very limited communication it works well to create a book or a folder that holds all your visuals. It can be as simple as using a legal or letter size folder and laminating it. Creating all the visuals your require for your day and cutting and laminating them then attaching to the folder by Velcro. On the front of the folder place a first/then with Velcro spots and on the back place an “I want” or “May I please” with Velcro. Use this with the child to display the tasks – You can also attach a step visual – 1. Cut  2. colour . 3. Glue

Visuals should have both the symbol and words. Always speak the word as you display the visual. You can create book using an exercise book or a plastic envelope book. Whatever is easiest for you to manage and the child to learn.