What are pictograms — and why do we use them?

What is a pictogram?

A pictogram is a simple image that represents an action, object, or concept. Think of it as a visual word — it communicates an idea without requiring reading skills.

Pictograms are used everywhere: on road signs, in airports, on bathroom doors. But they play a particularly important role for people who need visual support in daily life.

Who uses pictograms?

Pictograms are used by a wide range of people:

• Children with autism who need predictability and structure
• Children and adults with ADHD who struggle to maintain an overview of routines
• People with language disorders who use pictograms as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
• Parents who want to make daily routines clearer for their children
• Educators and teachers who use visual schedules in schools and kindergartens
• Speech therapists who work with communication aids

What is a visual schedule?

A visual schedule is a sequence of pictograms showing what will happen — and in what order. For example, a morning routine:

• Wake up
• Get dressed
• Eat breakfast
• Brush teeth
• Put on shoes
• Go to school

Each step is represented by a pictogram. The child can see the entire day ahead, which reduces anxiety and uncertainty.

Why do pictograms work?

Research shows that visual information is processed faster and remembered better than text — especially for people with neurodivergent brains. Pictograms:

• Reduce cognitive load — you don't need to read or remember verbal instructions
• Increase independence — the child can check the next step themselves
• Reduce conflicts — expectations are clear and non-negotiable
• Work across languages — perfect for multilingual families

Create your own pictograms

With Pictofy, you can describe the pictogram you need, choose a style, and download it instantly. You're not limited by standard libraries — you can create exactly the pictogram your child, student, or client needs.

Create your first pictogram for free