Start with familiar things
ZERO TO THREE suggests a picture-based “My Day” book for toddlers and describes the usefulness of familiar routines. You can draw simple pictures or use clear, neutral icons. If an icon means nothing to your child, show the real object or use a gesture instead. Understanding pictures takes practice and varies between children. ZERO TO THREE guidance. ZERO TO THREE guidance.
Use the cards together
Put only the next few activities in view. Name the current one, then show what comes next. Point again when the transition happens. The adult still provides care, reminders and comfort. If the sequence changes, explain the new next step; you do not need to preserve the cards at the expense of a child's needs.
Make the paper version useful on its own
The free routine-card tool should let an adult choose, reorder, edit and print a short sequence. A toddler does not need a phone, account or points. Try the printout during a calm moment first. If it adds work without helping communication, reduce it to one picture or stop using it. No card system can promise fewer tantrums.
Play, hands, lunch
An illustrative family example. Adapt it to your own situation.
- Choose three familiar pictures and print them.
- During play, show the play picture.
- When lunch is ready, show handwashing and help your child with it.
- Point to lunch as you move to the eating area.
We’re playing now. Next we’ll wash hands together. Then it’s lunch.
Our next few steps
Copy these prompts onto paper and fill them in for yourself. Generic activity words are enough.
- Now:
- Next:
- Then (optional):
- Adult help we need:
Make free picture cards for your next few steps. A grown-up can choose pictures, edit and reorder a short sequence, then print it to look at together. Edits stay in your browser session, and you can reset the plan whenever you need to. No signup or child details are needed.
For families with older children
Have an older child who is ready for supported household responsibilities? You can separately explore how LvlUpKids turns chores into quests, with parent approval, XP and chosen rewards. See the optional chore app. Free to download, with in-app purchases.
General information for parents and caregivers. For individual health or developmental concerns, speak with a qualified professional. Sources inform these ideas; they do not endorse LvlUpKids.