learning a routine

  • Break it down into parts, and start small – “1 or 2 steps, then Finished!”
  • Reduce language and use natural geture and visual cues to back up instructions
  • Use backward chaining – you do all the parts until the last bit, that the child does.  One they’ve got this, give them the last 2 bits to do, then the last 3 …
  • Set out a visual instruction to help the child remember.  Click here for an example (add this!)
  • Model the rules, and ask the child for help – “what next?”
  • Use large dolls/soft toys to practice routines like dressing – ask the child the teach the toy with you!