Executive Functioning Visual Supports: Phone in Pocket, Wallet in Bag System
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
The Daily Struggle with Organization
Does this sound familiar? Your child rushes out the door, only to realize their phone is still on the kitchen counter. Or they're standing at the checkout, frantically digging through their backpack while a line forms behind them. Maybe you've watched them try to manage their phone and wallet at the same time - holding their phone in one hand, trying to open their wallet with the other, then needing to get money out but having no free hands. In the confusion, they set their phone down "just for a second" and then can't remember where they put it.
For individuals with ASD, ADHD, and other learning differences, these everyday moments can become sources of significant stress due to challenges with:
Working memory - simply forgetting essential items
Sequential processing - difficulty knowing what step comes first, second, third
Task organization - not having a systematic approach to managing belongings
Motor planning - struggling to coordinate the physical steps when hands are already occupied
The issue isn't that they can't do these things - it's that they don't have an automatic system or sequence for managing their belongings efficiently.
Why This Executive Functioning Visual Support Works
This simple visual reminder creates a clear, consistent routine that addresses all these challenges:
Systematic Approach: Phone goes in pocket FIRST, then wallet can be retrieved from bag when needed - no more trying to juggle both at once.
Sequential Clarity: By establishing "phone in pocket, wallet in bag," students learn the order of operations for managing their belongings.
Consistent Placement: Phone always goes in the same pocket, wallet always goes in the same bag location. No more searching or forgetting.
Motor Planning Support: By designating specific locations, students can develop automatic movement patterns, reducing the cognitive load of decision-making.
Prevents Lost Items: When items have designated "homes," there's no more setting things down "just for a second" and losing track of them.
Why These Visuals Are Effective
Real photographs instead of drawings make the expectation crystal clear
Specific locations eliminate guesswork
Simple, uncluttered design reduces visual processing demands
Printable allows the reminder to be posted anywhere it's needed
Who This Is For
This visual support is designed for students with ASD, ADHD, and other learning differences who are working to build executive functioning skills. It's particularly helpful for:
Students who frequently forget essential items
Those who struggle with organization and routine
Learners who become overwhelmed when managing multiple objects
Anyone working toward greater independence in daily living skills
Download this free visual reminder and help your student build confidence in their daily routines.
About the Author
Jane Shin is an integrated SEN therapist specializing in teaching SEN learners of all ages academic and life skills. With more than 20 years of experience working with children and families, Jane is passionate about helping each learner realize their full potential.
She takes a relationship-based approach that merges the systematic effectiveness of ABA, the joyful exploration of play therapy, communication foundations of speech therapy, and nurturing guidance of counseling into one cohesive treatment.
Jane focuses on understanding children beyond their diagnosis, addressing root problems to unlock each child's unique potential. When not supporting families, Jane enjoys crafting and baking. For consultations or questions, text us at +852 95477957.
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