First Then Visual Schedule (Free Printable) for Kids with Autism

Learn how to make a first then visual schedule. First then visual schedules are extremely useful to increase understanding, make waiting and transitioning easier and decease frustration, at home or in an autism classroom. Read about the 10 benefits of visual schedules in this post. Make sure you download your free printable First Then Visual Schedule to get the most out of this post.

child with autism using first then visual schedule

Table of Contents

What is a first then visual schedule?

Take a look at this video to get an idea of what a first then visual schedule looks like :

A visual schedule provides information in a visual way. It can include images, real photos or drawings to show your child the order of events for the day or for a particular amount of time (such as a home session or activity).

A first then visual schedule contains just 2 pieces of information and presents them in a visual way as well. The first then visual schedule shows what comes first and what comes next.

Check out the Autism Activities Workbook Bundle for more printable autism activities!

3 examples of first then visual schedules

Eat a snack and use the bathroom.
Work on handwriting then play with a favorite musical toy.
Go to the grocery store then go home.

Why is a first then visual schedule useful for a child with autism?

The goal of using this type of simple visual schedule is to show your child that he or she must do one thing first, followed by a second activity. It’s very simple but by making the information visual rather than just saying “do this, then that…”, you will be making it easier to understand for your child.

Steps to make your own first then visual schedule

Step 1 :

Download your free printable first then visual schedule PDF by filling out the box below.

Step 2 :

Print it out.

Step 3 :

Laminate your first then visual schedule.

Step 4 :

Select the photos to use as part of your first then visual schedule.

Check out the Autism Activities Workbook Bundle for more printable autism activities!

How to use a first then visual schedule with an autistic learner

You can incorporate this type of two-step visual schedule with a child with autism in many different situations.

Download your first then visual schedule printable here

Using Visual Schedules with Kids with Autism

Visual support can be the difference between a session or outdoor activity filled with frustration and difficult behaviors or an activity that flows smoothly, is fun for everyone involved and helps your child or students progress joyfully.

More Autism Resources

Autism Activities Workbook Bundle – build communication skills, fine motor skills, sensory play skills and daily living skills, while helping your child or students to successfully manage any difficult behaviors, with these fun, educational, printable activities.
The Successful Interaction with a Child with Autism Course – learn to better understand your autistic child or students with this complete course.
Sensory Communication Workbook – Build communication skills with simple sensory activities.
How to Make a Communication Binder Guide & Workbook – Learn how to create a Communication Binder for your child or student with autism using real photos. Follow my expert guide to learn how to use it to increase communication skills.
Autism Adapted Books Bundle – a collection of 10 adapted books that will help you build communication skills while teaching more than 120 vocabulary words.
Zoo Animals Play Dough Mats Bundle – use these printable play dough mat to work on the names of the animals, build language skills, and increase fine motor strength and precision in a fun, sensory way!

More Visual Schedule Resources

First Then Visual Schedule

Use the free printable First Then Visual Schedule with your child or students with autism to provide structure and visual support for your activities at home, in the classroom or in your private practice.