Simple Ways to Use Checklists with Children

Just as date books, appointment logs, and post-it notes may help you remember all the things you want to accomplish, checklists can be a systematic way to get your child on board with being independent. Checklists support responsibility and promote a sense of accomplishment for even the youngest child. They can also limit or eliminate the ongoing need for you to continuously remind your children of what you desire for them to do.

Whether your child has a diagnosed disability or is just busy being a typical child who would rather play than clear up his or her bedroom, then checklists may be the missing trick for you and your family..Here are a few things to consider as you develop a checklist:

1.Think about the tasks or responsibilities that your child(ren) is expected to perform on a daily, weekly, or monthly.

2.Begin with the requests you consistently repeat because your child(ren) does not complete them.

3.Select the top 3- 5 tasks and begin with them. (Examples: cleaning a bedroom, preparing for school, preparing for a sport practice or game, taking a bath …)

4.Individual lists may be needed for each child

5.First list each step in sequential order (beware of omitting details or jointing steps together)

6.Use language that is age appropriate for your child

7.Include pictures for young or special needs children

8.Use photographs of your child doing the task and print them individually or in sequential order (this is perfect for young children or non readers)

9.If your child, knows all the steps and is able to accomplish them independently, then take a photograph of the completed tasks. Place the pictures on the calendar at the appropriate date or time to serve as visualreminders.

10.Laminate your pictures and photos so they are reusable.

11.Put velcro dots on the back of each item and affix it to a Velcro strip for portability and easy management.(It may have to be moved until you find a location that works)

12.Limit one task per sheet of paper

13.Lists may be laminated to extend their shelf life.

14.Once the checklist is laminated, it may be placed on almost any surface even a bathtub wall to remind a child to wash all the important places.

Posted below is an example of a checklist for Hand Washing; feel free to download, print, and use it.