Choice Board

Choice boards are visual communication tools that help students with autism and other communication challenges express preferences, make decisions, and increase engagement in activities. 

When to Use: 

• Food & Drinks (e.g., snacks lunch options, beverages)
• Preferred Reinforcers (e.g., break time activities sensory tools)  
• Activities & Actions (e.g., reading, drawing, movement breaks)
• Places (e.g., playground, library, sensory room)
• People (e.g., preferred teachers, peers, family members)  
• Toys & Materials (e.g., puzzles, blocks, tablet, art supplies)   

How to Use: 

1. Create a choice board - Use pictures, symbols, text, or objects depending on the student’s language and cognitive ability. Begin with two or three choices, increasing options as the student becomes comfortable.
2. Introduce the choice board - Show the board to the student. If needed, read choices aloud while pointing to each one.  
3. Prompt the student to make a choice - Allow the student to indicate their choice based on their motor and communication skills:
   • Pointing, looking at, or touching the desired option.
   • Removing a Velcro-backed icon and handing it to an adult.
   • Verbalizing or using AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) devices to express choice.  
4. Acknowledge and honor the choice - Praise the student when they use the choice board effectively. If the student chooses an immediate item, provide it right away. If the choice is a reinforcer, add it to the token board or first-then visual.  

Tips: 

• Offer only available choices - Avoid frustration by ensuring all listed choices are accessible.  
• Use a Velcro strip on the back - Store extra or unavailable choices out of sight.  
• Adapt for different abilities -  
• Some students need large icons for pointing or gazing.
• Others can use smaller, tightly arranged visuals to grab and exchange.  
• Make it portable - Attach choice boards to a clipboard, keyring, or binder for easy access.  

Variations: 

• Simple two-choice board - Best for beginners or those who get overwhelmed.  
• Expanded choice board - Includes multiple categories (e.g., activities, reinforcers).  
• Themed choice boards - Customized for specific settings (e.g., snack time, playtime).  
• Digital choice boards - Used on tablets or communication apps for accessibility.