Say It with Pictures: Supporting Students with Scripting Visuals
For many students with autism, social interactions and verbal communication can be challenging. Scripting visuals—structured visual supports that outline conversations or routines—can help students navigate these interactions with confidence.
What Are Scripting Visuals?
Scripting visuals use pictures, symbols, or written words to provide clear, predictable language for different social situations. These can include:
- Conversation Scripts – Step-by-step prompts for greetings, asking questions, or responding to peers.
- Behavior Scripts – Visual reminders of expected actions in different settings, like raising a hand or taking turns.
- Emotional Scripts – Tools to help express feelings and respond to emotions appropriately.
Scripting visuals reduce anxiety, improve communication, and foster independence by providing a reference students can rely on. They can be tailored to individual needs, making social interactions more accessible and enjoyable.
How to Use Them
- Introduce the script with modeling and practice.
- Pair visuals with simple, clear language.
- Reinforce success with praise and encouragement.
- Gradually fade support as the student becomes more confident.
By incorporating scripting visuals into the classroom, educators can empower students with autism to engage meaningfully in their social world—one picture at a time!
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About LASARD
The LASARD team is made up of experienced educators that mentor and support hundreds of educators across Louisiana to meet the unique needs of their diverse learners by implementing specialized supports. LASARD’s trainings are paired with with in-person, job-embedded coaching to ensure the use of evidence-based practices.
LASARD is a project of the Human Development Center
LASARD is a project of the Human Development Center (HDC) at LSU Health New Orleans. HDC is Louisiana’s University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. HDC and its programs build the capacity of professionals, service providers, and families to ensure that people with disabilities are able to participate fully in all aspects of community life.