Building Routines to Support Executive Functioning

Routines are more than just schedules—they are lifelines for children with autism who struggle with executive functioning (EF). A solid routine provides the structure, repetition, and predictability that developing brains rely on to function more smoothly.

When EF skills like planning, time management, or task initiation are underdeveloped, even simple daily activities can feel overwhelming. 

By creating supportive routines, caregivers offer external tools to compensate for internal struggles, while simultaneously helping children learn, grow, and eventually internalize those skills.


Why Routines Matter for Executive Functioning

Executive functioning difficulties impact things we take for granted: brushing teeth, remembering a backpack, switching from play to homework. A consistent routine takes the guesswork out of these expectations and reduces the mental energy needed to complete them.


Routines Help With:

  • Working Memory: Embedding task steps into repeated practice (“brush teeth, then wash face” every night)

  • Inhibitory Control: Establishing clear limits and expectations that reduce impulsivity

  • Planning & Organization: Providing a predictable flow for the day

  • Emotional Regulation: Offering security and stability through structure

  • Task Initiation: Teaching when and how to begin a task without stress

Essential Features of Executive Functioning Supportive Routines

1. Consistency

  • Why it matters: The more predictable the environment, the easier it is for a child to anticipate what comes next

  • How to implement:

    • Stick to a regular schedule: wake-up, meal, play, and bedtime hours as best as possible

    • Keep routines similar on weekends and holidays, especially for core tasks like hygiene or meals


2. Visual Structure

  • Why it matters: Visual supports reduce dependency on verbal reminders and improve independence.

  • How to implement:

    • Use pictures, icons, or photos for each task step

    • Post routines in areas your child sees most (on the fridge, bedroom wall, or bathroom mirror, living room)

    • Include a “done” column, use checkmarks or remove steps that have been completed


3. Step by Step Task Guides (also called task analysis charts)

  • Why it matters: Children with EF challenges may not intuitively understand or remember multi-step processes

  • How to implement:

    • Break routines into smaller tasks  (“Get Dressed” → 1. Underwear, 2. Shirt, 3. Pants, 4. Socks)

    • Create laminated or magnetic task cards, flow charts or schedules


4. Built-In Transition Cues

  • Why it matters: Switching from one task to another is often a source of distress

  • How to implement:

    • Use timers (any visual ones like sand, digital or color ones)

    • Give verbal countdowns: “5 more minutes of play, then bath.”

    • Include transition objects like a favorite toy or card signaling a change



How to Build and Teach a Routine from Scratch


1. Start Small!

  • Begin with one routine (bedtime)

  • Focus on mastering it before moving on to others like morning or homework routines

2. Involve Your Child

  • Let your child help choose the order of steps, pick or take pictures for their chart! 

  • This creates buy-in and makes the routine more meaningful

3. Use Practice and Role Play

  • Walk through routines together at neutral times (not rushed)

  • Narrate each step: “Now we’re putting on socks, that’s step three!”

4. Incorporate Reinforcement

  • Celebrate when routines are followed:

    • Verbal praise (“You did all your steps by yourself!”)

    • Sticker charts

    • Special time or small rewards after a full week of success.  I often incorporate something that is productive as a reward but she enjoys it too, like a sensory activity!

5. Modify and Evolve

  • As your child’s needs change, so should the routine

  • Check in monthly to update visual aids or add new steps

  • Stay flexible, life happens! It’s okay and we need to teach them that it’s okay to use our flexible thinking when something changes


Managing Resistance to Routine

Resistance is normal, especially when a child is tired, overstimulated, or feeling defiant. You can still maintain structure while being flexible.

Gentle Solutions:

  • Choices within structure: “Do you want to brush teeth before or after pajamas?”

  • Use transition helpers: Timer, countdown cards, visual prompts

  • Acknowledge feelings: “I see you don’t want to stop playing. That’s hard. Let’s take one deep breath together.”


Helpful Tips:

  • Laminate routine cards to keep them clean and reusable :)

  • Keep routines visible at eye level

  • Use whiteboards for routines that change daily (like afterschool schedules)

  • Pair routine steps with music or a silly dance (a brushing teeth song) to increase engagement

Building strong, supportive routines isn’t just about getting through the day, it’s about teaching essential life skills. With each repeated step, children with autism are practicing executive functions like memory, attention, planning, and regulation.

Caregivers can become co-creators of confidence and independence by providing consistent structure, visual tools, and emotional support. Over time, routines become a foundation for growth, autonomy, and success!

Don’t forget to check out the workshop on building routines!