Using First Then Boards to Improve Classroom Behavior

These First Then board templates with Visuals Cards are a simple, evidence-based schedule for classroom management, designed specifically for PreK–2 Special Education classrooms.

The First–Then strategy provides clear expectations, visual structure, and positive reinforcement to improve behavior and increase task completion — without constant verbal reminders.

Why Use a First–Then Board? 

Students with Autism spectrum disorder often benefit from predictable routines and visual supports. The First–Then strategy, commonly used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), helps reduce anxiety and increase cooperation by clearly showing:

✔ What task must be completed
✔ What reinforcement comes next

What’s Included in This Resource 

🟢 TIER 1 – This printable First–Then board pack includes:

✅ Full-Size First–Then Cards (Color + Black & White)
✅ Desk-Sized Mini First–Then Strips
✅ Editable Templates (with Power point)
✅ Reinforcer Choice Page & Toolkit

1.Calm down corner visuals

2.Break cards

3. “all done” cards  
✅ Quick Teacher Implementation Guide and data sheets

Perfect For:

  • Autism classrooms
  • Self-contained special education
  • Resource rooms 
  • Early childhood special education
  • Behavior intervention support
  • Response to Intervention (RTI) Tier 2 behavior support

How to Use in Your Classroom 

Use these First–Then boards to:

✔ Reduce task refusal
✔ Improve transitions
✔ Increase work completion
✔ Support positive behavior plans
✔ Build independence in young learners

Data Sheets :

Track progress with the quick Teacher Implementation Guide and Data Sheets!

First-Then Token Boards for Autism Support

Give your students clear expectations and motivating visual support with this First-Then Token Board System designed for autism and special education classrooms. This resource includes 10 printable First-Then boards, 7 token style choices, and 30 motivator visual cards—perfect for behavior reinforcement, task completion, transitions, and classroom routines.


These ready-to-use visual supports helps students understand what comes next, stay on task, and build independence. Ideal for autism classrooms, resource teachers, ABA therapists and SLPs.

Whats included

  • 10 First-Then Boards (clean, simple, easy-to-understand designs)
  • 7 Token Choices (large stars, small stars, smileys, colors, etc.)
  • 30 Motivator Choice Cards (classroom rewards, preferred items, activities)
  • First and Then Visuals for easy scheduling
  • Editable icons
  • Printable, low-prep format
  • Perfect for SPED, autism support, ABA, and behavior management

Perfect For

  • Autism support classrooms
  • ABA therapy sessions
  • Special Education teachers
  • Behavior intervention plans
  • Visual schedules and routines
  • Task completion and transitions
  • Reinforcement systems
  • Early childhood + Not Grade Specific

This printable First-Then Token Board is a must-have for autism support and special education! Visual schedules, motivator choices, and token options all included.

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✔ Supports communication for nonverbal or minimally verbal learners
✔ Reduces challenging behaviors by clarifying expectations
✔ Increases student motivation and independence
✔ Flexible use with ANY classroom routine
✔ Easy to print, laminate, and reuse