Free printable · PreK to Grade 5
Free first-then board set, with picture pieces
A first-then board shows two things in order: what we do first, and what comes after. It is one of the simplest visual supports, and it can help a student start a less-preferred task. Print the free set below, or make one with your own two steps.
Download free PDFNo email needed. Print as many as you need.
More pages in this PDF
First math, then tablet
First work, then snack
Make your own in seconds
Make one with any two steps, with pictures, ready to print.
Try asking for:
- “first then board: first math then tablet”
- “first then board: first work then snack”
SCAFLI is in early access. The free PDF above needs no sign-up.
What it is
A first-then board pairs something the student needs to do with something they want to do next.
How to use it
- Show it before the task starts.
- Say it the same short way each time: “First work, then break.”
- Always follow through on the “then”.
Three quick tips
- Keep “first” short at the start.
- Use pictures the student already knows.
- Move to a full visual schedule once first-then is working.
Questions
- What goes in the empty Then box?
- The free PDF has picture pieces to cut out: snack, drink, game, toy, music and more, plus a blank one.
- When do I move to a full schedule?
- When the student follows first-then easily, a short visual schedule is a natural next step.
- Can I use my own words?
- Yes. Tell SCAFLI the two steps, like “first math, then tablet”, and it puts a picture with each.
A starting point for your own professional judgment. Use initials only on any page about a student.