First/Then Boards for Autism

A first/then board shows a learner two things: what to do now, and what comes right after. It is one of the simplest visual supports there is. Here is how to use it well, and why it sometimes stops working.

Create a First/Then Board See When to Use One

What a First/Then Board Actually Does

The board has two spaces. On the left, First: the task or activity you need the learner to do. On the right, Then: something they enjoy that follows. "First shoes, then playground." "First worksheet, then iPad."

The idea comes from the Premack principle: a preferred activity can reinforce a less preferred one when it reliably follows it. The board makes that arrangement visible. Instead of hearing a string of words they may not process, the learner can look at the board and see what is expected, and what they get for it.

A good first/then board does a few things at once:

It makes the expectation concrete. The picture stays put while spoken instructions disappear.
It shows the work has an end. The Then side tells the learner the demand is finite.
It cuts down on repeated prompting. You can point to the board instead of saying the same thing again, which keeps your tone calm.
It is quick to set up. Two pictures and a printout are enough to start.

One note on scope. A first/then board covers one step. It is not a full schedule. If a learner needs to see the whole day or a longer routine, a visual schedule is the better tool, and a first/then board works well inside it.

4 Times a First/Then Board Is the Right Tool

1. Getting Through a Non-Preferred Task

Homework, brushing teeth, a difficult therapy target. Keep the First step small enough that the learner can finish it, and make the Then something they actually want that day. Deliver it right away when the task is done.

2. Transitions Between Activities

Moving from a favorite activity to something else is hard for many learners. "First clean up, then snack" gives them a reason to move and something to move toward. Show the board before the transition starts, not in the middle of it.

3. New or Unfamiliar Routines

Doctor visits, haircuts, a new classroom. A board with a photo of the place and a clear reward afterward makes an unfamiliar demand easier to predict. Practice at home first when you can.

4. Starting Out With Visual Supports

If a learner has never used a visual support, a first/then board is a gentle place to start. It has only two items, so there is little to get wrong. Once it works, you can move on to longer schedules or a token board.

Common Mistakes With First/Then Boards

Using the board as a threat

"First work, or no iPad" is a different message from "first work, then iPad." Keep the wording and your tone neutral. The board is information, not a warning.

Not following through on the Then

If the learner finishes the First step, the Then happens, every time. Skipping it, delaying it, or sneaking in an extra task teaches them that the board cannot be trusted.

A First step that is too big

"First clean your whole room" is a lot to ask. Break it down. "First put blocks in the bin" can be done, and finishing builds momentum.

A Then that is not motivating

What a learner liked last month may not work today. Check preferences often, or let them choose the Then from a small choice board before you start.

How to Build One in a Few Minutes

1.Pick the pair. One clear task, and one thing they like.
2.Add images. Search the library or upload your own photos. Real photos often work best for early learners.
3.Choose a layout. Portrait or landscape, in whichever color scheme suits your setting.
4.Print and laminate. Add velcro so the pictures can be swapped for the next task.

Make a First/Then Board for Your Learner

Pick your pair, add images, and print. It takes a few minutes, and you can change it any time.

Create a First/Then Board

Free. No credit card needed.

Related Guides

Browse all guides →