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 慜bject of reference�):
- For example, you could show them a nappy and say 搉appy time�, or a favourite bath toy/towel and say 揵ath time�.
- Try and be consistent in which object you use for which activity.
- .
- You could show them a photo or picture of where you are about to go e.g. nursery / school / the park / Grandma抯 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. .
- 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厖�.厖.4厖厖....3厖�.厖2厖厖.1厖 揻inished�
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