It took about a year to take hold, but I put my daughter on a set schedule for everything ! No matter where we are or what we’re doing...it’s iced coffee time at 2:00pm! Her day takes place in 2 hour increments . Starts at 8:00am and ends at 2:00am with the last toileting call. If she asks for something and it isn’t time yet, I say “that’s a great idea! We’ll do it 4 or 6 or whenever it’s scheduled for. She used to be in constant battle mode but very rarely has problem now. Just always has to have her schedule followed , be reassured what she has ants is on the schedule , and also know where all her “treasures” are at all times. Hope this helps. Side bonus is that even though she is non verbal, anyone can listen ok at the schedule and reassure her what’s coming !

he is 6, non-verbal. communication is through pecs and gestures and hand guidance

thanks for the tip, i will try first and then schedule. he has a daily schedule of activities. i will try to incorporate 'first, then' card.