TEACCH Pets – Structured Tasks for Preschool and Autism Support

TEACCH Pets – File Folder Tasks for Autism, Preschool & Special Education

This printable resource includes 24 structured file folder tasks based on the TEACCH approach, ideal for use in autism classrooms, preschool, kindergarten, and early special education. The tasks support visual learning, step-by-step routines, and independent work. All activities are based on the engaging theme of pets.

Each task comes on a single A4 page and uses 10 matching cards. The materials are designed for laminating and use with Velcro dots. Students work by matching pictures, identifying animal features, reading or hearing simple sentences, and sorting by categories like size, quantity, or habitat. An optional “distractor card” can be added to increase the difficulty level.

This set is designed especially for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), language delays, or cognitive learning needs. The highly structured format and visual layout make it suitable for nonverbal or minimally verbal learners, and the tasks can be used in independent work systems, 1:1 instruction, or classroom centers.

Learning goals:

• Build independent work routines

• Strengthen visual and auditory processing

• Support early language and communication

• Practice early math concepts (quantities up to 3, sizes, patterns)

• Learn to categorize and organize by features (animals, habitats)

The 24 tasks cover 7 learning areas:

1. Work routines – step-by-step matching

2. Visual perception – image, mirror, shadow, and detail matching

3. Language – sounds, syllables, word-picture, sentence matching

4. Auditory perception – listening and matching (supports talking pens)

5. Pre-math – counting, comparing sizes, continuing patterns

6. Categorization – sorting by animal habitat or personal preference

7. Image understanding – recognizing what pets eat, where they live

Included in this resource:

• 24 printable file folder task pages

• 10 matching cards per task + optional distractor

• Card storage templates & folder covers

• Step-by-step teacher guide

• All materials in black-and-white format for easy printing

Target group:

• Preschool and kindergarten

• Grades 1–2

• Students with autism, speech delays, or cognitive disabilities

• Inclusive classrooms and special education settings