First, Then Board | School

A simple visual that shows students what is happening now and what comes next.

First, Then Board · Support Transitions · Clear Expectations · Built for School · First, Then Board · Support Transitions · Clear Expectations · Built for School · First, Then Board · Support Transitions · Clear Expectations · Built for School · First, Then Board · Support Transitions · Clear Expectations · Built for School · First, Then Board · Support Transitions · Clear Expectations · Built for School · First, Then Board · Support Transitions · Clear Expectations · Built for School · First, Then Board · Support Transitions · Clear Expectations · Built for School ·

Build Smoother Transitions and Reduce Resistance

When Beckham was younger, transitions at school were tough. Moving from one subject to another, switching teachers, or ending a preferred activity often led to stress and pushback.

His teacher and I worked together to find something that made those moments easier: a visual that showed him what was happening now and what was coming next.

That is where the First, Then Board came in. It gave Beckham a predictable structure and helped him stay calm through changes. Instead of constant reminders, he could simply look at the board and know what to expect.

Now this same tool supports classrooms, therapy rooms, and resource settings everywhere. It helps students who need visual structure understand the plan, move more smoothly between activities, and feel confident about what is next.

Feeling this? Imagine this instead:
❌ Transitions between subjects cause stress or shutdowns ✅ Students see what’s next and stay regulated
❌ Students need repeated reminders of expectations ✅ The board provides consistent visual reminders
❌ Motivation drops when the next task feels unclear ✅ “I am working for…” tokens keep students engaged
❌ Laminated visuals take too long to prep ✅ Reusable design that adjusts instantly
❌ Classroom plans fall apart when schedules change ✅ Changes feel manageable, not chaotic

How It Works

Place the board where your student can see it. Set the FIRST cling to the current activity and the THEN cling to what comes next. When FIRST is done, move it to done and update the board. That is it. No laminating. No printing. No prep time.

Pair it with token clings to build motivation, or use it alongside the Reward Path Board for a complete behavior support system.

From Educators

“Our students use the board to preview transitions and calm down before changes. It has been a huge success in helping them understand what is next.” — Robyn Frandsen, School Psychologist

How to Use It: SIMPLE

Transitions feel safer when students can see what’s happening now and next. Tokens and visuals motivate and make progress visible.

Support consistency by showing exactly what’s happening now and next.
Include students in choosing the “then” activity so they feel part of the plan.
Model transitions by moving the pieces together and talking it through.
Place it on your lanyard or near the workspace so it’s easy to see.
Link it to routines and cues you already use, like “First math, then break.”
Empower students by letting them move the tokens and “then” piece when they finish the first task.

Start simple. Keep this nearby for the first few weeks.

Yes. It is designed specifically for school, therapy, and homeschool settings. Teachers, paraprofessionals, OTs, and school psychologists all use it regularly.

Yes. They are static cling vinyl and can be moved all day without residue or wear. No magnets required. They hold on acrylic or any smooth surface.

You can use it on its own or pair it with Token Clings or the Reward Path Board for added motivation. Many teachers start with just the board and add tokens when they want an extra layer of reinforcement.

The First, Then Board works great with one set to start. Teachers often add two or three sets over time for more variety across subjects and activities.

Ready to Simplify Classroom Transitions?

Quick to set up. Simple to adjust. Built to help students transition with confidence.