What strategies can educators use to support students with autism during transitions?

Using visual schedules and clear routines is particularly effective for supporting students with autism during transitions because these students often thrive on structure and predictability. Visual schedules provide a concrete representation of what is expected throughout the day, helping to alleviate anxiety related to uncertainty about upcoming activities. When students know what to expect, it can enhance their sense of security and control, making transitions smoother.

Incorporating clear routines also reinforces independence, as students learn to anticipate what comes next and can prepare for changes in their environment. This practice allows students to understand how long a particular activity will last and what they should be doing at each stage of their day, ultimately leading to increased compliance and reduced behavior issues during transitions.

Though reducing classroom noise levels, offering frequent breaks, and engaging in large group activities are all beneficial strategies that may also help students with autism, they do not directly address the need for clear expectations and predictability during transitions in the same comprehensive way as visual schedules and routines do.