What is an Activity Schedule?
An activity schedule is a sequence of pictures or words that cue someone to engage in a sequence of activities. The pictures or words used can be detailed or vague depending on the learner. They can also include tasks such as homework assignments or vocational tasks, activities such as leisure skills, or rewards such as preferred items. Activity Schedules can take many forms, but the concept and outcome is the same…teaching for independence.
How to Implement an Activity Schedule
The teacher or parent begins by setting up the schedule with pictures or words and making sure that all the activities are accessible. Begin by making sure that the learner has a clear space to work and present the schedule and the cue to begin such as “It’s time to play.” The instructor should start behind the learner and use a teaching procedure known as graduated guidance to help guide the learner through completing the activity. The learner should attend to the schedule, point to the first activity/task, complete the activity, and then indicate that the activity is all done before moving on to the next activity. As the learner becomes more independent, the instructor can begin to fade their proximity to the learner.
Why is it an important skill to teach?
Teaching Activity Schedules helps learners to gain independence as well as on-task behavior. Learners can also learn to structure their own free time, make independent choices, and if done correctly, can increase social interactions. We all use schedules and it is important for all individuals to learn how to follow and create their own schedules in order to be independent.
Brianna Fedolfi, M.Ed., BCBA, LABA
References
McClannahan, L. E., & Krantz, P. J. (2010). Activity schedules for children with autism: teaching independent behavior. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
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