Make First/Then boards actually work in your classroom with this clear, step-by-step teaching script and implementation guide.

This resource goes beyond the basic visual and shows you exactly how to teach, reinforce, and fade a First/Then system so students build task initiation, compliance, and independence—without power struggles.

Why This Resource Matters:

First/Then boards are often misused as negotiation tools or ineffective visuals. This guide ensures you implement them with fidelity, so they truly support behavior and learning.

What’s Included:

✔ Clear explanation of the purpose of First/Then boards (and what they are NOT)
✔ Specific guidance on when to use—and when NOT to use—them
✔ Simple, effective setup guidelines for success
✔ Step-by-step teaching script with exact language to use
✔ Strategies for early success and student buy-in
✔ Practical fading plan to move toward independence
✔ Common mistakes to avoid (huge time-saver for teams!)
✔ What to do when a student refuses or escalates
✔ Simple data tracking system for decision-making
✔ Long-term plan: transitioning to schedules and independence

Key Skills Supported:

• Task initiation
• Transitioning to non-preferred activities
• Compliance with demands
• Reduction in problem behavior
• Increased independence

Perfect For:

• Autism classroom teachers (K–5)
• Special education staff
• ABA therapists
• Behavior specialists
• Paraprofessionals

How to Use This Resource:

• Teach students to complete short tasks before reinforcement
• Support difficult transitions into work time
• Train staff on consistent, low-language prompting
• Build a bridge from refusal → independence