Free First Then Board Creator
Show what happens first and what comes next using your own photos.
Help children understand transitions, routines, expectations, and motivation using a simple visual first then board designed for autism, ADHD, executive functioning, and daily life support.
Great for routines, transitions, waiting, schoolwork, hygiene, and daily tasks.
First Then Board Creator
Show what comes first, then what comes next.
Use real photos from your phone for routines, transitions, rewards, schoolwork, hygiene, or daily tasks.
Need a visual countdown too?
Some children benefit from seeing how much time is left, not just what comes next. Bee Timer combines First Then supports with visual countdown clocks, movement breaks, heavy work, and animal walks to support transitions, focus, and regulation.
⏰ Open Bee TimerSample First Then Boards
Swipe through full board examples to see how first then boards can support routines, transitions, motivation, and daily life.
What Is a First Then Board?
A first then board is a simple visual support that helps children see what is happening now and what comes next. It can help make routines, transitions, waiting, and difficult tasks feel more predictable and easier to understand.
What can first then boards help with?
First then boards can help with transitions, hygiene routines, schoolwork, waiting, bedtime, chores, therapy tasks, community outings, and daily expectations. They are often used to support motivation, predictability, and follow through.
Where can I use a first then board?
You can use a first then board at home, school, therapy, restaurants, stores, appointments, in the car, during homeschool lessons, or anywhere transitions feel difficult. This tool is designed to work directly on your phone for quick real life support.
Why do personalized first then boards work better?
Personalized boards can use real photos from your child’s life. A picture of your child’s actual toothbrush, homework table, swing, snack, or playground may feel more meaningful and easier to understand than generic clipart.
Simple way to use a first then board
- Keep the language short and simple.
- Use real photos when possible.
- Show the board before the transition starts.
- Point to each part while saying it out loud.
- Follow through consistently when possible.
FAQ
Are first then boards only for autism?
No. First then boards are often used for autistic children, but they can also help children with ADHD, anxiety, executive functioning challenges, developmental delays, speech delays, sensory needs, and children who benefit from visual supports.
Can I use my own photos?
Yes. This tool is designed so you can upload real photos directly from your phone. Personalized visuals may be easier for many children to recognize and understand.
What kinds of things should go first?
The first step is usually a task, routine, transition, or expectation. The then step is often a preferred activity, break, comfort item, movement activity, or next routine.
Should the “then” always be a reward?
Not always. Sometimes the then step is simply the next routine or activity. In other situations, a motivating activity can help support transitions and participation.
Do I need to print the board?
No. You can use it directly on your phone. Printing can help if you want to post the board near routines, transitions, classrooms, therapy spaces, or visual support areas.
What if my child ignores the board?
Start simple. Use highly familiar photos, keep the board short, and pair it with calm adult support. Many children need repetition before visual supports become part of the routine.
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