How to Set Up an IAS in the Home

An independent activity schedule (IAS) is a set of pictures or words that signals a child to complete a group of activities. It enables your child to do activities independently with minimal supervision. It can give your child a chance to engage in purposeful activities at home and school. 

Individuals with autism often respond better to visual cues than verbal instructions. An IAS can be an effective visual tool that can help your child learn to stay on task, shift from one activity to another and complete functional life skills. An IAS can also help reduce mild misbehaviours such as non-compliance and seeking attention inappropriately. It can be used as part of your child’s daily routine at home and at school or during times where adult attention is limited (i.e., caregivers are busy helping a sibling, cooking or talking on the phone). An IAS can be adjusted for the developmental needs of your child. For example, pictures can be used for early learners or those who can’t read, and written instructions can be provided for those who can.