First-Then Boards for Autistic Children: A Guide to Smoother Transitions

‍What Are First-Then Boards?

First-then boards are visual supports that clearly show a child what is expected first and what will happen next. These visuals can be especially beneficial for neurodiverse children. First-then boards present a simple, two-step sequence:

• First: The task or activity the child is being asked to complete
• Then: The motivating reward or preferred activity that follows

For example:

• First: Brush teeth (picture of a toothbrush)
• Then: Watch favorite cartoon (picture of TV show)

First-then boards are slightly different from visual schedules, which lay out multiple steps for the day. First-then boards also differ from choice boards, which offer a menu of options. 

A first-then board narrows focus to a single expectation. This can help children who feel overwhelmed by too much information at once (Children’s Autism Services of Toronto).

Visual Representation Examples:

• Laminated cards with Velcro and removable images
• Digital versions on tablets or smartphones
• Hand-drawn pictures on a mini-whiteboard

No matter the format, clarity is key. Each board shows what needs to be done now and what’s coming next.

Why First-Then Boards Work So Well for Autistic Children 

Children on the autism spectrum often face challenges with executive functioning, the mental skills that help us organize, plan, start, and finish tasks. Transitions can trigger anxiety when expectations are unclear. First-then boards are helpful because they present what’s expected to happen in a predictable and visual way that the child can understand.

Key benefits backed by research:

• Reduces uncertainty: Knowing what’s next lowers stress for children who thrive on routine (CST Academy).
• Supports communication: Images and simple language help children with limited verbal skills understand expectations.
• Boosts independence: Following a first-then sequence helps kids gain confidence in managing transitions on their own.
• Increases motivation: Pairing non-preferred activities with rewards uses the Premack Principle (do this, then you get that), which is  a widely used method in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) (Autism Classroom Resources)

When to Use First-Then Boards

First/then visual supports are useful whenever transitions or new routines pose a challenge.

You might use them to:

• Move from one activity to another (playtime → clean-up)
• Switch locations (classroom → playground)
• Tackle tricky moments (first hold hands → then cross the street)
• Get through less-loved tasks (homework → then favorite game)
• Ease into new or stressful routines (doctor’s visit, trying new foods)
• Prevent meltdowns during high-stress times (bedtime, therapy sessions)

For some children, a first-then board smooths the path to everyday tasks. For others, it becomes a lifeline during harder moments, like morning routines or school transitions.

How to Create Effective First-Then Boards

Building a great first-then board does not require fancy tools. Focus on thoughtful planning:

1. Choose Appropriate Images

• Real photos of the actual activity or object can work really well for children who need to see a clear and literal example of what is expected 
• Animated or illustrated images can work beautifully too, especially if they are bright and not overly complex (Nookly is a great option for quick, personalized animations).
• Picture symbols (like those from PECS) are a great option if your child is already familiar with that system
• Simple drawings can also be effective and work well for older children or quick boards

2. Size and Format

• Larger images help kids who need strong visual cues
• Keep the board small enough to take on the go so it’s always accessible.

3. Durable and Portable

• Laminate the board to withstand daily use.
• Add Velcro so images can be swapped in and out with ease.

4. Involve Your Child

• Let your child choose photos or illustrations for their preferred activities—this boosts buy-in and engagement.
• Including them in the process increases motivation and helps them better understand the routine.

5. Digital vs. Physical Boards

• Digital boards or apps offer flexibility and quick changes—perfect for busy families or classrooms. Look for options that allow customization.
• Physical boards are great for consistent routines. They can be displayed on the wall at eye level and offer tactile feedback. (Pro tip: Nookly makes it easy to print first-then boards and other visuals. 😊)

Step-by-Step Implementation Guide

1. Introducing the Board

Begin with simple, highly motivating rewards like a favorite snack or special toy. Communicate expectations using clear 'first/then' language: “First, we clean up the toys, then we can go play outside.”

2. Using the Board Consistently

Keep the board where your child can see it, such as eye level on the wall or placed on the table. Refer to it before and during transitions (“Let’s check the schedule. First, wash hands, then snack)).

3. Building Up to Harder Tasks

Once your child gets the hang of using first-then boards, you can start adding tasks they're not as excited about doing.

4. Fading Prompts

Over time, work toward having your child check the board without your help. You might start by pointing to the board, then switch to gentle reminders like "What does your board say comes next?" Eventually, they'll look at it all by themselves.

Real Examples of First-Then Boards in Action

Around the House:

• 🏠Morning routine: First get dressed, then have breakfast
• 🌛Bedtime: First brush teeth, then storytime

At School:

• 📚Making transitions smoother: First finish your worksheet, then it's free play time
• 🌟Special classes: First speech therapy session, then fun computer time

During Therapy:

• 🤝Learning social skills: First practice taking turns with our toys, then we eat snacks (for more tips on using visuals to help with social and emotional learning, check out our blog post on social stories)

Out and About:

• 🚗 Navigating daily activities: First ride in the car, then playground

Where to Go from Here

If you want to dive deeper, the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center has some amazing resources on visual supports. Autism Classroom Resources is another favorite with lots of practical stuff from people who actually work with kids every day.

For making your own boards, Nookly makes it super easy to create and print custom visuals (and honestly, it's kind of fun). 

And don't sleep on connecting with other parents. Facebook groups, local meetups, and even chatting with parents at therapy appointments. Sometimes the best tips come from someone whose kid had the exact same struggle yours is having. Here are some Facebook groups to join that can help on your journey: Nookly, Autism Awareness & Parents Support Group, and Autism Parents Support Group. 

The best way to start is by getting started! You might be surprised how much smoother things get with just a simple "first this, then that."