How to Use Visual Schedules in Adapted PE

Make class predictable, accessible, and successful for all learners.

Visual supports aren’t just helpful—they’re essential for many students in Adapted Physical Education. Whether you’re teaching students with Autism, anxiety, or other diverse needs, visual schedules provide the structure and predictability that help everyone feel safe and ready to learn.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to create and use visual schedules that actually work in a movement-based environment like P.E.—and how these tools have transformed the way my students engage.

🧠 Why Visual Schedules Matter in Adapted P.E.

Students thrive when they know what’s coming next. In P.E.—where the space is big, the activities are fast-paced, and the expectations shift quickly—some students can feel overwhelmed or disoriented.

That’s where visual schedules come in. They reduce anxiety, increase independence, and support smoother transitions. For students who struggle with verbal directions, they can be a game-changer.

📋 Tips for Using Visual Schedules in Adapted PE

1. Keep It Simple

Use clear visuals—pictures, icons, or real objects—to represent each part of your class routine. Avoid too much text. You want your schedule to be quick to glance at and easy to understand.

💡 Tip: Use Boardmaker symbols, real photos, or simple hand-drawn sketches—whatever your students respond to best.

2. Post Schedules in a Visible Spot or Use Portable Boards

Mount your schedule where students can see it during class. If you teach in multiple locations or outdoors, use clipboards, binders, or mini whiteboards with Velcro-backed visuals to make your schedule portable.

💡 Tip: For individual students who need more structure, create personal schedules they can carry or keep on a lanyard.

3. Update Schedules as Routines Change

Don’t let your visuals become outdated. If you're switching units, adding a warm-up, or trying a new activity, update the schedule accordingly. Students will notice and rely on that consistency.

💡 Tip: Build in a “surprise” or “choice” icon to give yourself flexibility while maintaining structure.

🧰 Real-Life Example

Here’s a typical adapted PE visual schedule I use:

1. Arrival & Greeting

2. Warm-Up

3. Stretching

4. Station Rotations (3 total)

5. Cool-Down

6. Exit Routine

I use Velcro icons that can be moved as needed, with a "finished" pocket to show progress. Some students even help build the schedule themselves!

📥 Free Resource: Visual Schedule Card Pack

Download my free printable visual schedule cards and get started building your own class or individual schedules today.👉 Download the Free Visual Cards

📘 Want the Full Toolkit?

For detailed strategies, visuals, routines, and monthly planning, check out: The Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual

Includes dozens of ready-to-use templates, behavior tools, and real classroom examples.

🔍 Keywords:

Visual schedules, adapted physical education, Autism, PE routines, sensory-friendly, inclusive PE, special education strategies, behavior supports

💬 What Visuals Work Best for You?

Do you use object schedules? Color-coded boards? Let me know what’s worked in your classroom in the comments below—or tag me @easy.adapted.pe on Instagram to share your setup!