Visual Schedule & First-Then Board

Show what is happening, and what comes next, with pictures. Build a First-Then board, a Now–Next–Later plan or a six-step day, tick steps off as they are done, and print or read the board aloud.

By the Little Classroom Tools team · Reviewed by qualified UK primary and secondary school teachers · Last updated 23 October 2026

How to use the Visual Schedule & First-Then Board

1. Choose a layout: First – Then (2 steps), Now – Next – Later (4 steps) or Full day (6 steps).
2. Tap a picture to change it (there are 30 to choose from), and type a short label underneath, such as “Maths” or “Snack”.
3. Press Done – next as each step is finished, so the pupil can see what has been completed and what is coming.
4. Press Read aloud to hear the board, Print for a paper copy, or Fullscreen for the board.

Ways to use it in class

• A First-Then board to support a transition: “First writing, then computers”.
• A visual timetable for a pupil who finds change difficult, printed and kept on their desk.
• A calm, predictable end-of-day routine with each step ticked off.
• Support for pupils with additional needs or English as an additional language, where pictures carry meaning that words may not yet.

Good to know

• Visual supports work best when they are used consistently and introduced calmly. Involve the pupil in choosing the pictures where you can.
• Read aloud uses your browser’s built-in speech voice, so the voice depends on your device.
• Your board is saved on this device only. It is not uploaded.
• This tool supports good practice; it does not replace advice from your school’s SEN team or an individual education plan.

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