first, then board | school: support transitions with clear expectations

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

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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’s where the First, Then Board | School 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’s next.

  • from struggles

  • to success

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 does the reminding for you—visually
❌ Motivation drops when the next task feels unclear ✅ “I am working for…” tokens keep students motivated
❌ Laminated visuals take too long to prep or maintain ✅ Durable and reusable—ready to adjust anytime
❌ Classroom plans fall apart when schedules change ✅ Schedule changes feel manageable, not chaotic

Every step matters—and this board helps students see that.

How It Works

1. choose your board

The First, Then Board comes in a clean magnetic acrylic version designed for your fridge, dishwasher, or any magnetic surface. Just add the visual clings—no dry erase markers or setup needed.

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2. set up visual steps

Use clings to show what needs to happen first, what’s next, and (optionally) what they’re working for. It's simple and quick to update as your plans shift.

recommended clings

3. support independence

This board helps kids see the plan. When expectations are visual and consistent, they’re easier to follow. That means fewer meltdowns, smoother transitions, and greater confidence for everyone involved.

Real Families Are Loving It

“The daily board has been a game changer for my 4-year-old… He is actually excited to do [tasks] and move them to the ‘done’ category. It has taken one less stress off of me.” — Cynthia

“I’m kind of obsessed with our new chore charts from Fern Family… I love that it gives my kids options.” — Aubree

“This will help the whole family feel like they know what’s going on.” — Elise

“They’re super easy to peel and stick and reuse.” — Katie

why teachers love it

  • visual clarity

    Icons and layout make the day predictable, especially for neurodivergent students.

  • motivating setup

    Students stay focused when they can see what they’re working toward.

  • reusable and durable

    No more printing or laminating—just move the pieces and reuse them daily.

  • fits any setting

    Use it in classrooms, therapy rooms, or small groups—it adapts to any environment.

  • reduces overwhelm

    Transitions are smoother when everyone can see what’s next.

how to use it – SIMPLE

Support consistency by showing exactly what’s happening now and next.
Include students when choosing the “then” activity so they feel part of the plan.
Model transitions by moving the pieces together and talking it through.
Place it near the workspace or activity area 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.

The goal isn’t to make it perfect—it’s to make it SIMPLE.

Because if it’s not SIMPLE, you’re doing too much.

Learn the SIMPLE method

faq

Can I use it in my classroom?

Yes! It’s designed specifically for school, therapy, and homeschool settings.

Are the clings reusable?

Yes. They’re static cling and can be moved all day long without residue or wear.

Do I need a reward system with it?

You can use it alone or pair it with Token Clings or the Reward Path Board for motivation.

How many cling sets do I need?

That depends on your needs. The First, Then Board works great with just one set, but many families and teachers love having two or three for variety.

Can I use it for one student or the whole class?

Both. Use it for individualized plans or group transitions—it adapts easily.

ready to simplify classroom transitions?

Click below to start with the First, Then Board | School.

It’s quick to set up, simple to adjust, and built to help students transition with confidence.

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