For many young children with autism, following directions can feel overwhelming. That’s why starting with one step directions is such an important foundation. When children master simple instructions like “clap your hands” or “touch your nose,” they build the listening, comprehension, and communication skills that will prepare them for more complex tasks later on.

If you’re looking for engaging autism speech therapy activities—or if you simply want to help your toddler practice following directions—this One Step Directions resource is the perfect place to begin.

Why One Step Directions Are Important

One step directions are the building blocks of communication. Skills like following “stand up” or “wave” may seem small, but they create the groundwork for learning routines, participating in play, and interacting with others.

For children with autism, pairing visual cues with verbal instructions makes these skills easier to understand. The clear pictures included in this resource provide just the right amount of support—helping children feel confident and successful.

Inside the One Step Directions Resource

The One Step Directions books and flashcards are designed with visual learners in mind. This set is ready to go for speech therapy sessions, classrooms, or at-home practice.

Here’s what’s included:

-40 total direction cards with clear visuals.

-Simple actions like stomp feet, clap hands, touch nose, and wave.

-Movement-based actions like jump, crawl, dance, and sit down.

-A prompting key to guide support.

-Datasheets to track progress and celebrate success.

Examples of One Step Directions

The cards cover a wide range of easy-to-understand actions. For example:

  • Clap your hands.
  • Touch your tummy.
  • Wave.
  • Run.
  • Sit down.

Because the visuals are paired with the words, children can clearly see what’s expected and practice step by step.

Why Visual Supports Help Children with Autism

Visual supports are powerful tools in autism speech therapy. They make abstract directions concrete, reduce stress, and help children process information more effectively.

When children use visuals alongside spoken language, they’re more likely to respond successfully. Over time, the visuals can even be faded so children learn to follow verbal directions independently.

What Parents and Teachers Are Saying

⭐ “Thank you for creating this resource for 1-step directions! It will be so helpful to have for therapy sessions!” — Lindsey M.

⭐ “I love this resource! Many of my students responded well to the visuals, which I was able to fade to allow for independence following directions.” — Lee L.

Get Started with One Step Directions Today

If you’re searching for autism speech therapy activities that work, this One Step Directions resource is a great place to begin. With clear visuals, simple actions, and easy tracking tools, it’s designed to support young learners in building confidence and communication.

👉 Click here to get your copy of the One Step Directions resource today!

More resources like this:

Two Step Directions

One Step Directions Bundle

Preschool Self-Regulation Activities

Visual supports give children another way to understand, communicate, and participate — no matter how they express themselves. The Visual Supports Starter Set includes visuals you can use in your home or classroom to support autonomy, connection, and shared understanding. Click here to get yours and begin building supportive routines that truly honor every child’s voice.

visual supports for autistic students

Create a Circle Time That Feels Safe, Structured, and Engaging

If circle time has been sitting on your “I know this needs to feel better” list, this is the easiest place to start. This quick, practical guide walks you through 5 simple shifts that help circle time feel more predictable, engaging, and supportive for autistic students with high support needs—without forcing long group times, adding pressure, or expecting students to participate in one “right” way.

You’ll learn how to start small, use visuals, support regulation, build in interaction, and create a circle time routine that grows with your students over time. 

Download the guide and start with one small shift that makes tomorrow’s circle time feel easier.

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

0
0
Your Cart
Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop