Leaving the Park First Then Board
A leaving the park first then board helps with one of the hardest transitions: stopping a fun activity. It shows the park first and something good at home next. Keep it in your bag and bring it out five minutes before it is time to go.
Free to print with no account. The customized board also runs on a tablet in a session.
About this template
Leaving something fun is hard for most children, and it can be much harder for a child who struggles with change. The board makes the end of the park visit part of a plan, and the second card gives the learner something to head toward instead of only something to leave behind.
How to use it
- Print the board and keep it, folded or in a small folder, with your bag or the stroller.
- About five minutes before you leave, show the board and say that the park is nearly finished.
- Point to FIRST and say goodbye to the park, perhaps with one last turn on the swing, then point to THEN.
- Walk to the car or home together and mention the THEN picture on the way, so the promise stays in mind.
Make it yours
- Change the THEN card to match the real plan, such as a snack, a bath or a favorite show.
- Use the same board for leaving a friend's house, the library or the playground.
- Pair it with a visual timer so the end of the visit is something the learner can see approaching.
- Let the learner hold the THEN card on the way home as a reminder of what is coming.
Questions
How much warning should I give?
Many families give a short warning and then a final one, for example five minutes and then one minute. Choose what suits your learner.
What if there is a meltdown anyway?
Stay calm and keep your voice low. A board does not prevent every hard moment. If transitions are a regular problem, ask your BCBA to help you build a plan.
Does the THEN card have to be a treat?
No. It only has to be something the learner looks forward to, and it can be part of the normal day, such as home play or a favorite show.
Related templates
- First/then boardsFirst work, then break
- Visual schedulesDoctor or dentist visit
- Choice boardsCalm down choices
- 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.