Making Transitions Easier: How to Use “First/Then” at Home

When introducing “First/Then” at home, don’t start with the most difficult situations. Begin by pairing “First/Then” with activities your child already enjoys.

Transitions can be tough—especially for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). One simple yet powerful strategy we use in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the “First/Then” approach. It’s clear, structured, and highly effective for helping children understand sequencing while building motivation for less preferred tasks.

Why “First/Then” Works

The “First/Then” strategy provides a predictable framework. It helps children understand what is expected and when something will happen. For example:

First clean up toys, then play outside.

Children with ASD often struggle with abstract concepts like time. When you say, “We’ll go outside later,” it can be hard for them to understand when “later” is. “First/Then” takes away the guesswork and gives their brains a concrete sequence to follow.

It also reduces power struggles. If your child tends to yell, scream, or cry to access their favorite things, try to remain calm and neutral. Keep your words short, consistent, and positive as you reinforce the “First/Then” structure. It may take a few practice opportunities for your child to adjust, especially if they’re used to accessing preferred items through other behaviors—but stay consistent!

This strategy has been shown time and again to be incredibly helpful.

A Starting Point: Use It for Fun First!

When introducing “First/Then” at home, don’t start with the most difficult situations. Begin by pairing “First/Then” with activities your child already enjoys. This builds positive associations and increases their understanding of the structure.

Try something like:

First ice cream, then Bluey.

Once your child starts recognizing and responding to this routine with ease, you can begin using “First/Then” during transitions or tasks that may be more challenging, like cleaning up or brushing teeth.

Quick Tips for Success

• Keep your tone neutral and your instructions simple.

• Use visual supports if your child responds well to pictures.

• Be consistent—don’t let big emotions throw off the routine.

• Celebrate success, even in small wins!

Implementing “First/Then” in everyday routines can help your child feel more confident, reduce meltdowns, and make transitions smoother for the whole family.