First-Then
Also called: first-then board, premack principle
Definition
First-then is a two-part visual prompt — “first this, then that” — that pairs a task to be done with a preferred activity that follows, making a transition feel predictable and doable.
“First we brush teeth, then we read a story.” By showing the task and the motivating next step together, first-then answers the two questions a child cares about most — what do I have to do, and what happens after — in a calm, positive frame.
It’s the simplest form of visual schedule and a great starting point. Read our full guide to first-then boards.