Section 4: Routines, Visuals, and Daily Structure

Structure isn’t rigidity. It’s clarity.

A neurotypical child often learns through overhearing, prompting, and routine exposure.

But a Deaf+ child — with a different operating system and no audio input — needs the world mapped out visually, predictably, and physically in order to participate, regulate, and eventually act independently.

Think of routine as an app shortcut: Without it, they’re digging through dozens of unfamiliar files. With it, they click and go.

Why Structure Is a Regulation Tool

For Deaf+ children, structure is not optional:

• It reduces anxiety by creating predictability.

• It helps the body and brain sync around transitions.

• It replaces the missed auditory cues with visible ones.

• It allows the child to build body autonomy and task completion.

If your day feels chaotic — they are running without a roadmap.

Start With a Visual Schedule

Tips:

• Use pictures and sign icons they recognize (not clip art or text only).

• Keep it in a consistent location — visual memory builds orientation.

• Use Velcro, magnet, or pocket systems so they can manipulate and track the flow.

• If you speak, sign and say each step.

Example Schedule:

Time	Activity	Visual Support
8:00	Wake Up	Picture of bed + “WAKE” sign
8:30	Eat	Photo of food + “EAT” sign
9:00	Play	Toy photo + timer + “PLAY” sign
10:00	School Work	Work symbol + “LEARN” sign
12:00	Lunch	Real photo of lunch plate
1:00	Outside	Playground image + “OUT” sign
3:00	Calm Time	Weighted blanket + “QUIET” sign

Pair every transition with:

• A consistent sign

• A countdown visual (timer, 5-4-3 fingers, “last time” card)

Use First/Then to Build Independence

This helps scaffold understanding and reduce meltdowns:

• “First potty. Then park.”

• “First brush teeth. Then choose snack.”

Use:

• A board with slots for each card

• Pictures with sign + English word

• Show and sign repeatedly

Eventually, your child will internalize the routine and pre-regulate for transitions.

Teach the Why Behind Routine

Autistic children often resist when things feel pointless or unpredictable.

Don’t just say: “Put on shoes.” Say: “SHOES = OUTSIDE” (sign both). Point. Pair signs. Use images. Tie actions to clear meaning.

They’re not stubborn. They’re asking: Why are we doing this? What’s next? How long will it last? What do I do when it ends?

Answer that before the behavior happens.

Anchor the Day with Sensory and Regulation Routines

• Start the morning with movement + sign (bounce + “WAKE UP”)

• Transition with countdown timers

• End with repeat bedtime routines (bath, calm space, 3 sign words)

Repeat routines until they become body memory. Only then can the child begin to generalize.

Signs to Use Throughout the Day

WAIT
STOP
ALL DONE
HELP
FINISH
EAT
POTTY

Use these signs with visuals in each space: Bathroom, Kitchen, Bedroom, Play Area, Front Door.

Teach Time and Transitions with Visuals

Deaf+ kids can’t hear:

• “Five more minutes.”

• “Hurry up.”

• “We’re late.”

Instead:

• Use a sand timer, visual countdown, or light-up clock.

• Walk around and sign time remaining to the child directly.

• Post a clock with symbols for “lunch,” “play,” “sleep,” and match them to the schedule.

They need to see time pass — not just feel pressure from it.

When they know what’s coming next, they don’t panic when something ends.

When they know where they are in the day, they don’t need to rely on your stress to move them through it.

When they can see it, they can eventually run it.