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Learning Materials β€’ Executive Function

Visual Schedule Builder

Make your day predictable with simple visual blocks.

Back to Learning
ND-friendly reminder: start tiny, stop early, and count it as success.

Quick start (1–5 minutes)

  1. Pick the smallest possible goal (even one line).
  2. Fill in the Quick version below.
  3. Stop, or continue to the full worksheet if you have capacity.

Helpful tips

  • Use 3–5 blocks only (less is more).
  • Put breaks in the plan on purpose.
  • Add a buffer block for surprises.

Examples (optional)

Examples are here to reduce the β€œwhat do I write?” problem.

  • Example blocks: β€œBreakfast” β†’ β€œGet dressed” β†’ β€œLearning” β†’ β€œBreak” β†’ β€œFun” β†’ β€œLunch”.
  • Use icons/emojis in the blocks if words feel too much.

Make it accessible

  • Reduce sensory load: lower lights, reduce noise, use headphones or a fidget.
  • Allow alternative output: typing, voice-to-text, drawing, or pointing.
  • Use predictable breaks: after each box/section, take 1 minute to reset.
  • Keep expectations kind: β€œgood enough” is the goal.

Quick version (minimum)

Do the smallest version first. This is a complete win by itself.

Today looks like:
Morning:
Midday:
Afternoon:
Evening:

Full version

Use the full prompts when you have more capacity.

Today looks like:
Morning:
Midday:
Afternoon:
Evening:
Breaks:
One important thing:
Finished / done list:

Reflection (gentle)

Reflection is about learning what helps β€” not judging yourself.

What helped today?
What was hard?
Next time I will…
Energy level (0–10):
Stress level (0–10):
One win (even tiny):

Variations you can try

  • Minimum version: do just the first 1–2 lines, then stop.
  • Support version: do it with a parent/carer/teacher reading prompts aloud.
  • Visual version: draw, use stickers, or add simple icons instead of full sentences.
  • Timer version: set a 2–5 minute timer and only do what fits.

For parents/carers/teachers

Support without pressure. Make learning feel safe.

  • Ask: β€œDo you want help or space?” before stepping in.
  • Offer choices: β€œDo you want to write or draw?” β€œTimer or no timer?”
  • Praise effort and attempts, not just results.
  • If shutdown starts, pause and reset (water, movement, quiet).

Check-in (optional)

Tick any that apply. This helps spot patterns.

I had enough water/food.
The environment was calm enough (light/sound).
I used a timer or break plan.
I asked for help or used a script.
I stopped before burnout.