First-then boards: how to introduce one in a single week
A first-then board is a card with two spaces: "First" shows the task, "Then" shows something the child looks forward to. It makes the order of events visible, which helps many children who struggle with transitions or spoken directions. It works at home and in class for children in K–2 and often beyond.
What you need: a piece of card stock folded or divided into two boxes, and pictures for tasks and rewards (simple drawings, photos or printed icons). Velcro dots or tape make cards easy to swap.
A five-day way to introduce it:
- Day 1: use it when success is almost certain. First a very short, easy task (put one toy away), then something the child loves. Deliver the "then" right away.
- Day 2: repeat several times through the day with different easy tasks. Keep your words short: "First shoes, then park."
- Day 3: add a task that takes a little longer, but still one the child can do.
- Day 4: let the child help choose the "then" card from two options. Having a say makes the board feel like theirs.
- Day 5: use it for a real transition that is usually hard, such as leaving the playground or starting a worksheet.
Tips that help:
Point to each picture as you say the words. Keep the "then" small and quick so it doesn't become the whole event. Always follow through: if the "then" doesn't happen, the board loses its meaning. Take the finished task card off the board when it's done so progress is visible.
What to change next time: when a first-then board is working well, grow it into a three- or four-step visual schedule for a part of the day. If the child gets upset when they see the "first" card, make the first task shorter and easier for a few days.
If the child has an IEP or a support team, share what you are trying so everyone uses the same pictures and words.
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About this resource
- Shared by
- @UpOnlyLearning · Curriculum team
- Posted
- Oct 25, 2026
- Type
- Tip
- Grade
- Grades K–2
- Subject
- Special education
- Language
- English
- License
- Free for classroom, co-op and tutoring use. Please don't resell.