Many teachers and parents try a First-Then board once… and decide it “doesn’t work.”
The truth? It usually doesn’t work the first time — not because the tool is ineffective, but because it wasn’t introduced in the right way. Like any skill, using a visual schedule needs to be taught.
Here’s how to set up a First-Then Board for long-term success.
Step 1: Start With an Easy Win
The very first “First-Then” experiences should feel achievable. If the child refuses the “First” task, the board loses credibility — and you may end up with frustration or refusal.
Choose something the child is highly likely to do without resistance. This could be:
- A neutral or medium-preference task (e.g., First coloring → Then playground).
- Something they are already doing successfully and without refusal (e.g., First shoes off → Then snack).
The goal here isn’t to test tolerance. It’s to build trust in the routine of following the board. And it’s absolutely ok to help them if they need it. Once the child sees that the board is predictable and works in their favor, you can expand to less-preferred tasks.
Step 2: Keep It Simple and Concrete
- Use clear, concrete visuals, not abstract images.
- Pair visuals with short, simple language: “First puzzle, then snack.”
- Avoid long sequences until the child is fluent with two steps.
Step 3: Always Follow Through
For the board to hold meaning, the “Then” must always happen. Even short delays (like stopping to chat with another adult) can weaken trust in the system.
Consistency teaches the child: “If I complete the First, the Then will follow.”
Step 4: Don’t Overuse First Then Boards
A common mistake is using a First-Then for every single transition:
- First math, then snack
- First shoes, then walk
- First table, then recess
When this happens, the board can start to feel like just another demand tool. Instead, reserve it for:
- New or tricky transitions
- Tasks that often trigger resistance
- Moments where extra support is truly needed
This keeps the board powerful, rather than overwhelming.
Step 5: Expand Gradually
Once the child is successful with “First-Then”:
- Add a “Next” or “Last” step.
- Fade prompts, encouraging them to check the board independently.
- Slowly include lower-preference tasks, paired with meaningful “Then” activities.
Why This Works
By introducing the board with tasks the child will succeed at, following through every time, and using it strategically (not constantly), you’re teaching that the visual is reliable.
That reliability builds trust, reduces anxiety, and ultimately supports independence.
A Ready-to-Go Option
If you’d like a set of First-Then Boards designed with multiple formats (including token versions) and over 130 clear and concrete visuals for both school and home, I’ve created a resource that can save you time and help you introduce this strategy step by step.