Past Event Choice Cards

Past event cards are used to assist a student with disabilities recall an event.  The educator, for example, reviews an event that occurred during the day like, “What game did you play in gym today?” The question is written on one side of a card. The student answers or is prompted to answer the question.  The teacher writes the answer on the opposite side. The students take the card home and try to repeat the answer to his parent. The idea of the card is to help the student remember past events.  This is a great resource for students to communicate with others.http://www.lovaas.com/blog/archives/46-Helping-Children-with-Autism-Recall-School-Events.html

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	Where did you go this weekend?

 

 

 

 

 

Using Choices Cards

Choice cards are visual examples of choices that are available to non-verbal or minimally verbal students. They are similar to the break cards  mentioned in the previous post in that these  cards allow individuals to have independence in making decisions.   The pictures on the cards can be adjusted to a student’s life style.  For example, if a child enjoys watching a specific movie, a symbol representing the movie can be indicated on the card. Generally when more than one card is presented to a student, acting out or a power struggle can be avoided.  When using cards in my autistic classroom I present two options from which a student can choose one.  This option gives a student a feeling of control over his life. Choice options range from types of food, to types of activities to table choices at lunch.

 

What is a break card?

A break card is a visual support established by a child’s team for the purpose of communicating a need.  Students who are non-verbal, use break cards when they become bored or frustrated and have difficulty expressing it.  Students also need a break from an environment they are in, for example the echoing sound in a gym is often cause for frustration therefore a student can ask for a sensory break.  The “first then” break card establishes expectations and then the reward the child can earn. Students are able to calmly make requests and know expectations.

 

References: https://www.erinoakkids.ca/getattachment/Resources/Autism/Visual-Supports/Requesting-a-Break.pdf.aspx