Tips for Being on Time for People with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Being on time can be hard for people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), but there are ways to improve.

Here are some tips to help you stay on schedule:

1. Use Visual Schedules: Make a visual schedule using a whiteboard, planner, or digital calendar with color-coded events. Check it regularly to stay aware of what’s coming up.
2. Set Multiple Alarms: Use alarms and reminders to keep track of time. Set more than one alarm for important tasks and use different sounds for each one.
3. Prepare the Night Before: Get ready for the next day the night before by laying out your clothes, packing your bag, and organizing what you need. This helps you get started smoothly.
4. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Divide big tasks into smaller steps with specific times for each step. This makes things seem less overwhelming and helps you keep a steady pace.
5. Use a Timer: Use a timer to schedule how long each task should take. This helps you keep track of time for each activity.
6. Create a Morning Routine: Establish a regular morning routine to make transitioning between tasks easier.
7. Plan for Extra Time: Always aim to leave 10-15 minutes earlier than you need to. This gives you a buffer for unexpected delays.
8. Limit Distractions: Turn off the TV, limit phone use, and focus on getting ready to reduce the chance of getting sidetracked.
9. Use Time Management Apps: Explore apps like Google Calendar or Todoist to help with organization and staying on track.
10. Seek Support: If you struggle with being on time, ask friends, family, or a mentor for help with reminders, organization, and encouragement.

People with FASD can improve their punctuality and reduce the stress of being late. Remember, practicing these strategies consistently is key to developing better time management skills.

TODAY’S NOTE: “I get ready the night before. When I was little I even wore my clothes to bed so I did not have to think about what to wear.” – In Solidarity, Liz