First-Then Visuals

First/Then is a great way to set up expectations for your child. This is also known as “Grandma’s Rule” where the premise is getting your child to do something they don’t want to do like “Eat Vegetables” before they get something they want like “Dessert”. Showing them a visual representation of what needs to be completed First and then letting them know what comes after (Then) can help eliminate the questioning, nagging and complaining that often happens when our children want something or don’t want to do something. Start by putting the less preferred activity in the “First” column and then put in what they are wanting in the “Then” column and explain to your child that they “First” need to (inset expectation here i.e. brush teeth, clean up, eat dinner etc.) and “Then” they can (insert positive or reinforcing activity here i.e. read books, play a game, watch TV etc.). You can draw a picture in the boxes or print out pictures of the options you want to add to the boxes. However you utilize it, know this is a great tool/way to teach your child delayed gratification as well as help reduce the complaining and increase the likelihood of them doing what you are asking them to! Win, Win!

You can click below on the pictures or title to download a copy of each visual.