Velcro Task Boards: A Sensory Craft for Autism Support

For children with autism, establishing routines and reducing anxiety during transitions can make all the difference during the back-to-school season. One engaging, sensory-friendly solution is making a Velcro Task Board. 

This simple, craft can help kids visually organize their day, offering autism behavior support in a way that’s fun, interactive, and calming. Whether used at home or in conjunction with ABA services, these boards are a powerful tool for fostering independence and predictability. 

Why Velcro Task Boards? 

Children with autism often thrive with visual schedules and predictable routines. Velcro Task Boards provide a tactile and visual representation of daily activities, making it easier for kids to understand what’s coming next. The added Velcro interaction helps support sensory regulation by giving the child something to touch and manipulate as part of their routine. This craft can also be used in ABA therapy settings to support task sequencing, reinforce positive behavior, and reduce anxiety during transitions. 

Materials You’ll Need 

• Foam board or sturdy poster board 

• Velcro dots or strips 

• Printed or hand-drawn images of school tasks (e.g., brush teeth, get dressed, pack backpack, ride the bus) 

• Laminator or clear tape (optional for durability) 

• Markers or labels (optional for adding words under images) 

Step-by-Step Instructions 

1. Prepare the Board
   Cut your foam board to the desired size. A small board (8×10) works great for daily use, while a larger one can cover full weekly routines. 

1. Add the Velcro Strips
   Stick one side of the Velcro to the poster board. 

1. Create Routine Task Cards
   Print or draw pictures of your child’s daily tasks. Include both home and school-related activities like “Eat breakfast,” “Eat Lunch,” “Circle time,” and “Recess.” 

1. Laminate or Cover Cards
   Laminate the cards or cover with clear tape then attach the other side of the Velcro to the back of each task card. 

1. Build the Routine Together
   Let your child help assemble their board each day as part of their routine. This gives them control over their schedule and builds confidence. 

Sensory & Behavioral Benefits 

• Predictability reduces anxiety: Visual schedules help prepare kids for transitions, lessening the chances of feeling overwhelmed or having meltdowns. 

• Tactile input from Velcro: The act of attaching and removing cards provides sensory stimulation and can be soothing. 

• Supports independence: Kids can follow their schedule step-by-step, building confidence. 

• Ideal for ABA therapy: Task boards are commonly used to promote task completion, functional communication, and daily living skills. 

• Reinforces structure: Velcro Task Boards help create order in what may otherwise feel like a chaotic day. 

Perfect for Home, School, or ABA Settings 

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or a therapist working in ABA therapy, this craft fits seamlessly into any environment. It can be tailored for a single morning routine or expanded into a full-day schedule across settings. You can even personalize the boards with your child’s favorite characters or colors for added engagement. 

Simple crafts like Velcro Task Boards do more than just entertain—they offer a safe, sensory-friendly way to build routine, reduce stress, and enhance focus. Pair it with other sensory tools or incorporate it into your ABA therapy sessions for even greater success.