Pictograms

What are pictograms for?
IN BRIEF

A pictogram is a simple image representing an object, action, concept, or person. These images help communicate visually, especially for those with specific needs, such as some autistic people. For example, someone who doesn’t speak can point to an image to express a need. Pictograms can also be used to remember the order of tasks or to illustrate the steps of an activity.

What are pictograms?

Pictograms are visual communication tools that can represent objects, actions, concepts, or places. They are particularly useful for autistic people, for whom visual information is often easier to understand. These images play an essential role in their daily lives by facilitating comprehension and reducing misunderstandings.

Expressing oneself!

Nonverbal autistic people or selective mutism

Some autistic people do not speak or use very little spoken language. Others may communicate through repetition (echolalia) or experience periods of selective mutism, a temporary difficulty in using speech. However, everyone needs to communicate. Pictograms offer an effective solution: they enable people to express needs, emotions, or ideas by pointing to an image. They are also available in digital formats, accessible through specialized software and apps.

Routines and transitions

Being autistic often means needing clear information about what will happen. By organizing pictograms into sequences, it becomes possible to visualize the steps of a day, reducing anxiety related to changes and making transitions easier. These visual tools help structure daily life by providing a tangible representation of upcoming events.

Evening routine pictogram sequence
Shower routine pictogram sequence

Instructions

Pictograms can illustrate the different steps of a task. For example, simply asking someone to brush their teeth may not be enough. A sequence of images can break down each step, such as applying toothpaste, brushing, and rinsing the toothbrush. These visual aids, often displayed on walls, promote understanding and autonomy.

Tip

The lifesaving pictogram

A yellow triangular pictogram with an exclamation mark is often nicknamed “the lifesaving pictogram.” It represents an unexpected event and indicates that the usual sequence is temporarily interrupted. Once the unexpected situation is managed, the routine resumes as normal. This pictogram is essential for individuals who rely on sequences of images in their daily lives.

Social understanding

Pictograms can be used to illustrate social situations such as a disagreement, sharing, saying hello, or playing with friends. They can also explain emotions more clearly. For example, pointing to a pictogram of sadness can help explain that taking someone’s toy makes them feel sad. In return, an autistic person or someone with communication challenges can point to a pictogram to express their feelings: fear, disgust, joy, affection, etc. Images representing social situations are also useful for understanding appropriate behaviors.

Pictograms at school

Using pictograms to represent words, objects, and ideas during learning can enhance understanding of mathematical concepts, reading, and other subjects.

Fun fact

Pictograms aren’t just for autistic people. Everyone uses pictograms in one way or another. Traffic signs, for example, are essentially a set of pictograms, and many technical instructions are represented this way.

Flexibility

Pictograms can be replaced with photographs of people, objects, or places. The materials and supports can vary based on the needs and abilities of each individual.

Weekly overview

National Autistic Society

Visual supports: This resource provides a range of visual supports designed for autistic individuals. These tools can include picture cards, symbols, and visual timetables, aimed at enhancing communication and routine understanding.

Autism Awareness Center

Visual supports for autism: a step by step guide: A comprehensive guide on how to effectively use visual supports for autistic individuals. This includes detailed instructions on implementing visual schedules, social stories, and other visual aids.

Reading rockets

Visual Supports for Students with ASD: Offers a variety of visual supports tailored for students on Autism Spectrum. These tools are designed to aid in classroom learning and communication.

Valérie Jessica Laporte

Writer and content creator (in French) about autism