We use visual timetables for children and young people with autism.  They have photos or symbols of what is going to happen each step of the way.  The photos have Velcro on the back and each one is stuck on a strip in sequence. As each step happens, they can remove the photo to show it has been done and so they can focus on what is going to happen next.  Or the child can take each picture off and give it to you to ask you to do the next step, so they are initiating a communication with you.  It helps them to feel in control and focus on what is happening.