Telehealth sessions can be challenging when it comes to maintaining learner engagement—especially for young children. Without the structure of an in-person environment, it’s easy for attention to drift.
Visual supports offer a simple, effective way to increase predictability, reduce frustration, and keep learners actively involved during sessions.
In This Post You’ll Learn:
- What visual supports look like in telehealth
- Why they improve engagement
- Simple strategies you can start using right away
Why Visual Supports Matter
Visual supports help learners understand what to expect, which reduces anxiety and increases participation. In a telehealth setting, they also serve as a bridge between the screen and real-world interaction.
Why this matters: When learners know what’s coming next, they’re more likely to stay engaged and participate independently.
Strategy 1: Use a Visual Schedule
A visual schedule outlines the structure of the session using pictures, icons, or short phrases.
- Helps learners anticipate transitions
- Creates a sense of routine
- Reduces resistance to tasks
Quick Tip: Keep it simple—3–5 steps is often enough for younger learners.
Strategy 2: Incorporate Interactive Visuals
Visuals don’t have to be static. Adding movement, sound, or interaction can significantly increase engagement.
Real-Life Example:
During a telehealth session, I incorporated a short video into a young learner’s visual schedule. By singing along with the video, I noticed an immediate increase in sustained attention and engagement.
Takeaway: Pairing visual supports with interactive elements (like singing or movement) can turn passive viewing into active participation.
Strategy 3: Use Choice Boards
Giving learners choices through visuals increases motivation and gives them a sense of control.
- Encourages communication
- Builds independence
- Reduces escape behaviors
Quick Tip: Limit choices to 2–3 options to avoid overwhelming the learner.
Make It Work for You
You don’t need elaborate materials to get started. Many visual supports can be created using:
- Slides or screen-sharing tools
- Printed visuals
- Simple drawings
Start small: Choose one strategy and try it consistently during your next few sessions.
Final Thoughts
Visual supports don’t have to be complicated to be effective. Small, intentional changes can make a meaningful difference in learner engagement during telehealth sessions.
Author: Jasmine Sancedo