What types of visual timetables assist organisation for people with autism?

PostedDecember 29, 2025

UpdatedDecember 29, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Visual timetables use objects, photos, symbols, or written text to outline routines in a clear, predictable way. According to NHS Leicester guidance and NICE autism recommendations, they are widely used to support autistic children, young people, and adults by reducing uncertainty and easing daily organisation.

How visual timetables support organisation

NHS teams note that visual timetables help people understand what is happening now and what will happen next, lowering anxiety around transitions and reducing reliance on verbal instructions. A 2024 systematic review in Advances in Autism found consistent improvement in on-task behaviour, independence, and reduced adult prompting.

Types of visual timetables

Visual timetables come in different formats to help show routines clearly and support smoother transitions:

Object-based timetables

These use real, tangible items to represent activities. UK charity guidance from Caudwell Children and resources from Stages Learning highlight their usefulness for individuals who benefit from concrete, sensory cues.

Photo-based timetables

Photo-based timetables use realistic images of tasks or objects. Whittington Health NHS provides clear examples of how families can introduce these at home.

Symbol-based timetables

Symbol timetables use icons, drawings, or PECS-style images. The NAS-endorsed Autism Toolbox explains how these supports can reduce anxiety and clarify expectations. Further examples are available through Lincolnshire NHS.

Written timetables

Written timetables suit individuals who read confidently. Guidance from NHS Leicester outlines how to personalise text-based or mixed-format schedules.

Best-practice tips

NHS and autism organisations consistently recommend matching the format to the person’s communication profile. Many people benefit from beginning with a simple “now and next” board before building longer sequences (as suggested by Caudwell Children).
Using “change” or “whoops” cards, described in Lincolnshire NHS guidance, can help prepare for unexpected events. Involving the person in moving or removing items helps reinforce routines and increases independence.

A calm, predictable structure

According to NICE, NHS services, and peer-reviewed research, visual timetables are a well-supported tool for improving structure, reducing uncertainty, and supporting independence for autistic people. While they’re not a complete solution on their own, they reliably help make daily life more predictable and manageable.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.