First Work, Then Break Board
A first work then break board has two large cards: what to do now and what comes next. It tells a learner that a break follows the work, so the work has a clear end. Use it for a single task, a worksheet or a short stretch of homework.
Free to print with no account. The customized board also runs on a tablet in a session.
About this template
This is the smallest visual support there is, and that is its strength. There is nothing to read and nothing to count, just a task and what follows it. It is a good fit when a learner is not ready for a full schedule or a token board, or when one particular task needs a little extra help.
How to use it
- Print the page and cut it in half if you want two separate cards, or leave it whole on the table.
- Replace the pictures if the work is not writing, for example by sticking a picture of the actual task over the FIRST card.
- Point to FIRST, say the task, and wait while the learner works.
- When the task is done, point to THEN, say "break", and give the break straight away.
Make it yours
- Change the THEN card to a favorite snack, a toy or a short game, so the board works as a reward promise.
- Add a timer to the FIRST card so the learner can see how long the work will last.
- Use two FIRST cards for a two-step task, then a single THEN.
- Run it on a tablet in a session, where tapping the FIRST card brings up a celebration for the THEN card.
Questions
Is first/then the same as a token board?
No. A first/then board shows one task and one reward. A token board shows several small steps toward a reward. Some learners use a first/then board before they are ready for tokens.
What if the learner does not want to do the first thing?
Keep the task short enough to succeed, and make sure the THEN item really is something they like. If refusal continues, ask your BCBA or team for help.
Do I always have to give the break?
The board makes a promise, so it works best when the break follows every time the work is done. Keeping that promise is what helps the learner trust the board.
Related templates
- Build one from scratch with the First/Then Board Maker maker.
- Read more: First/then boards for autism.
- See all free templates.
General information only. Your BCBA or team can adapt this for your learner.
Pictures are from open symbol sets. See the credits.