Helping your child understand what is happening next
How?
- Use simple language.
- Tell them and show them what is coming next
- You could show them an object linked to the next activity of the day (an ‘Object of reference’):
- For example, you could show them a nappy and say “nappy time”, or a favourite bath toy/towel and say “bath time”.
- Try and be consistent in which object you use for which activity.
- Click here to watch a video all about using objects of reference.
- You could show them a photo or picture of where you are about to go e.g. nursery / school / the park / Grandma’s house. These could be printed out or stored on your phone.
- You could use a gesture or Makaton sign e.g. to show them it is time to have a drink. Click here to watch a video showing how to make the Makaton hand sign for ‘drink’.
- If your child struggles with things finishing then you could try counting down out loud and on your fingers. You could also try and have a very motivating activity that is coming next e.g. bubbles. 5……….…….4…………....3……….……2………….1…… “finished”
Remember:
- Children will not necessarily understand or pay attention to visuals straight away.
- Only through repeated exposure to the visuals will they begin to understand what they represent.
- If your child is not paying attention to photos/pictures try showing them an object next to the photo/picture. For example, if trying to tell and show them it is dinner time then you could show them their usual dinner plate at the same time as showing them a photo of them eating dinner.
Last updated20 Jan 2025