KlarDayMake a short picture story about what will happen. Include what you know, who will be there and what might change.
Practical ideas to adapt to your child. This guide is not medical advice and does not promise a particular result.
Find out what your child wants to know
Ask your child what they wonder about. Before a dentist visit, you could ask the clinic for pictures of the room and an explanation of the appointment. Arrange any accommodations directly with them.
Build a short preview
Choose a few pictures in order: the journey, the place, the activity and going home. Include who will be with your child. Use simple descriptions of what you actually know.
Share it at a time that suits your child. Some want to prepare early, others prefer less information at once. Let your child guide how much you look at together.
Allow uncertainty and feelings
Explain possible changes and avoid promising that something will not hurt or be difficult. Show how your child can ask for a break or help, too.
If the preview increases distress, pause and ask what your child needs. Repeated questions can mean different things. Do not assume a picture story alone will resolve the worry.
Further reading
National Autistic Society: order, predictability and routine
Frequently asked questions
How early should we prepare?
Adapt the timing to your child and the event. For bigger changes, start simply and add information as it becomes available.
Can we use a plan when some things are uncertain?
Yes, but show the uncertainty honestly. Describe what you know and explain that other parts may change. Update the plan together when you know more.
KlarDay
KlarDay puts everything in these guides into your pocket: visual routines, picture timers, transition countdowns and day previews. Free to use, no ads, made by a parent.
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