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First–then board

Two pictures: what happens first, and what comes next. A simple way to make a moment predictable. Try it below, then change the pictures.

Make this board

Tap a picture to hear it. This is the template you start from.

First, then

First brush teeth
Then play
Pictures: Mulberry Symbols © Steve Lee. License: CC BY-SA 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0). Made with TalkTiles · talktiles.velassi.org

What is a first–then board?

A first–then board shows two steps in order. The first picture is the task at hand, and the second is what follows, often something the person looks forward to: “First shoes, then park.” Seeing both steps helps make the next few minutes clear.

How to use it

  • Put the task in “First” and what comes next in “Then”.
  • Point while you say it: “First brush teeth, then play.” Tapping a picture says it too.
  • When the first step is done, point to it and move on to “Then”, as promised.
  • Keep it short: one step each, with pictures of the real things when you can.

Make your own

In the editor, tap a box to choose any of more than 450 pictures, or use a photo of the real thing. Photos stay on your device. Print a few for routines you use every day, or share a link so others use the same pictures.

Questions

Is the first–then board free?

Yes. Change it, print it and share it for free, with no account.

Can I use photos?

Yes. Photos of real things or places often work well. They’re kept in your browser on this device and print with your board.

What if I need more than two steps?

Use a visual schedule for longer routines. You can also switch any board’s layout in the editor.