A first-then board is the simplest visual schedule there is: two boxes, two pictures. First the thing that needs to happen, then the thing your child is looking forward to. It is widely used with autistic children and toddlers, and it works for almost any child stuck on a transition.
What is on it
A board with two large boxes labeled FIRST and THEN, plus eight cut-out picture cards: shoes on, brush teeth, clean up, homework, play, outside, story and screen time. A short how-to line sits at the bottom.
Who it is for
Toddlers, preschoolers and autistic children of any age who are new to visual supports, and any child who gets stuck on a particular transition, such as leaving the park, starting homework or getting in the bath.
How to use it
- Print the board and cards, laminate them and add Velcro dots to the boxes and cards.
- Put the task in FIRST and something your child wants in THEN.
- Say it in four words or fewer: "First shoes, then outside."
- When the first thing is done, move straight to the then. Keep that promise every time.
Tips
- Keep the "then" soon and real; a reward that comes much later loses its pull.
- Once it works, graduate to a three-step now-next-later strip.
Keep going
The visual schedule cards give you more pictures to use on the board. For transitions that need a time limit as well, add a visual timer.
US Letter, one page, full color (it also prints fine in black and white, and on A4 with "fit to page"). Free for home, classroom and therapy use; please share the link rather than re-uploading the file. More on our free tools and printables page.
