Using sticky notes is simple to do but for neurodivergent learners, this easy visual strategy can help them in ways we might not even think about.
Sticky notes may be small, but they can be a big lifesaver
A quick written message can prevent stress, stop meltdowns, and even help kids build independence. Let’s look at three real-life examples of how a sticky note worked better than words alone.
Routines make Kevin happy
Kevin thrives on routine. Every Tuesday, Mom picks him up early from school for a doctor’s appointment.
One week, the plan changed. Mom explained it to him in the morning before school. But when the usual pick-up time arrived, Kevin began pacing. He had forgotten about the change and quickly became upset.
The issue wasn’t that Mom didn’t tell him. The problem was that telling alone wasn’t enough. A quick sticky note—“Plans are different today. That is OK.”—would have helped Kevin remember and given him reassurance to remember and accept the change.
It helps to know something is OK
Ron also loves routine. Every day, he and Mom ride with Jenny to basketball practice, and Jenny always arrives right at 5:00. Ron watches the clock closely.
One afternoon, Jenny called to say she’d be a few minutes late. Mom knew how important timing is for Ron, so she grabbed a sticky note and wrote:
Jenny is late today. That is OK.
The note did two things: it told Ron about the change and it reassured him it was safe to accept the change. That small extra phrase—That is OK—helped him stay calm instead of spiraling into stress.
Susie gaining independence
Susie was on a special diet, so Mom sent containers of her food to school for snack time. Usually, the teacher would let Mom know when the supply was running low.
This time, the teacher turned it into a learning opportunity for Susie. She helped Susie write a sticky note for Mom: “I need more snacks.”
It was a small but powerful step toward independence. Instead of always relying on adults, Susie began learning to track her own needs and communicate them clearly.
Sticky Notes Work Both Ways
At first, we use sticky notes to give children information—to explain changes, reassure them, or help them remember. But over time, it’s equally important to teach them how to write notes back.
Sticky notes can be used to:
- Give information
- Ask questions
- Make requests
- Remind someone of something
- Share what’s important to them
Sample Sticky Note Phrases
For Changes in Routine
- “Plans are different today. That is OK.”
- “Mom will pick you up after school.”
- “No basketball practice today. We go home.”
- “Grandma is coming instead of Dad. That is OK.”
For Reassurance
- “The bus is late today. That is OK.”
- “The fire drill is over. We are safe.”
- “You finished your work. Good job!”
- “It’s noisy in the gym. You are safe.”
For Reminders
- “Library books go back today.”
- “Pack your lunchbox after snack.”
- “Bring water bottle to soccer.”
- “Homework goes in the backpack.”
For Kids to Write Back
- “I need to take my tennis shoes.”
- “Can I play outside?”
- “I need help with homework.”
- “I want a break.”
These short, simple phrases show exactly how sticky notes can:
✔ give information,
✔ reassure,
✔ remind, and
✔ let kids share their own messages.
Sticky notes may seem simple, but they’re powerful tools. They reduce anxiety, encourage flexibility, and give kids a way to practice real communication—both ways.
PLUS . . . this simple technique takes reading and writing out of the formal academics mode and turns it into something very practical and functional. That's a WIN!
P.S. One more thing . . . Why Sticky Notes?
Why not just use a piece of paper?
Sticky notes work better because:
- They STICK!
- They stand out. The bright colors grab attention right away.
- They’re portable. You can stick them where the child will see them—on a desk, a folder, or even their hand!
- They’re short and simple. Just enough space for one clear message, which keeps communication direct and easy to understand.
- They’re flexible. Notes can be moved, replaced, or saved as reminders.
Sticky notes turn a quick message into a visual tool that neurodivergent kids notice, remember, and actually use. But this simple strategy is something that ALL kids can benefit from. That's what it's all about!
Please share below how YOU use sticky notes. I'd love to hear.