Using First/Then Statements to Support Young Children
First/then statements are a simple yet powerful tool for helping children—especially those who are neurodivergent—understand expectations, transition between tasks, and build independence. By clearly stating what will happen first and what will follow then, caregivers can reduce anxiety, encourage cooperation, and increase a child’s sense of predictability.
Why Use First/Then Statements?
Children often struggle with unexpected changes or transitions, such as stopping playtime to get dressed or leaving the park to go home. First/then statements help by giving them a clear framework. They work well because:
- They reduce the need for negotiation or power struggles.
- They help children process what is expected before a preferred activity.
- They provide structure that builds trust and routine.
Keep It Consistent
A helpful tip: Use the same simple script each time. This consistency helps children process the language quickly and predict what comes next. For example, always saying:
“First we ____, then we ____.”
Add Visuals to Reinforce Understanding
Many young children—and especially those with language delays or processing differences—benefit from visual supports. A simple First/Then board with pictures or icons can help children understand the sequence of events even if they don’t fully process verbal instructions.
Visuals add another layer of communication and support by showing what’s expected and what’s coming next. These can be as simple or as detailed as needed:
- Velcro-backed icons or laminated visuals work well for repeated use.
- But visuals don’t need to be fancy! A piece of paper and a crayon or a whiteboard and marker can work just as effectively in the moment.
The key is having something visual to pair with your spoken First/Then language to support understanding and reduce frustration.
Common Examples
- First clean up, then snack.
- First shoes on, then outside.
- First potty, then story.
- First brush teeth, then tablet.
At GentleCare Therapy, we support families in using positive, neurodiversity-affirming strategies that promote understanding and independence. First/then statements—paired with visuals—are an excellent starting point for building smoother daily routines.
