Now and Next Board: How to Use One (Free Printable)

A now and next board is one of the simplest visual supports you can use with a young child. It shows two pictures: what's happening now, and what's happening next. That small bit of predictability can make transitions much easier, especially for children who find change hard.

This guide explains what a now and next board is, who it helps, and how to use one at home or in the classroom. There's a free printable board below, with a First and Then version and 40 picture cards.

What is a now and next board?

A now and next board is a card or strip split into two sections, labelled "Now" and "Next". You put a picture of the current activity in the first box and a picture of the following activity in the second. As one activity finishes, the "Next" picture moves across to "Now", and a new picture goes in "Next".

A first and then board works the same way. It's often used when the first activity is something a child is less keen on, and the second is something they enjoy: "First teeth, then story."

Who it helps

Most young children benefit from knowing what's coming. Now and next boards are especially helpful for:

• Autistic children, who often find unexpected change stressful
• Children with speech, language or communication needs, because pictures are easier to process than spoken instructions
• Children with ADHD or attention difficulties, who may struggle to hold a sequence in mind
• Any child who finds transitions hard, like leaving the park or getting ready for school

You don't need a diagnosis to use one. If transitions are a regular battle, it's worth trying.

How to make a now and next board

1. Print the board and cards on card, or on paper glued to card.
2. Laminate them if you can, so they survive daily use.
3. Cut out the picture cards along the dashed lines.
4. Add Velcro dots to each box on the board and the back of each card. Blu Tack works if you don't have Velcro.

Some families keep a small version in a bag or on a keyring for days out.

How to use it

Start with something positive in "Next"

When you first introduce the board, put something your child enjoys in the "Next" box. "Now shoes on, next park" gives them a reason to engage with the first step.

Keep the language short and consistent

Point and say the same simple words each time: "Now breakfast. Next get dressed." Too many words can make it harder to follow.

Move the cards as you go

When "Now" is finished, take that card off, move "Next" across, and add a new card. Involve your child in moving the cards if they want to.

Be consistent

Use the board every day for a few weeks. Children trust it more when it's always accurate, so update it if plans change.

Use it to show changes

If plans change, show it on the board: swap the card and explain calmly. Seeing the change can be easier to accept than just hearing about it.

Using a now and next board in school or nursery

In classrooms, now and next boards are often used for individual children alongside a whole-class visual timetable. They're useful for short tasks ("Now reading, next choosing") and for routines like tidying up or going outside. Using the same symbols at home and school helps, so it's worth asking your child's setting which pictures they use.

Moving on to a visual timetable

Once your child is comfortable with two steps, you can try three ("Now, Next, Then") or a longer visual timetable showing the morning or the whole day. Add steps gradually, and keep using the now and next board for tricky moments.

Adding feelings to the board

The printable includes four feelings cards with the That's Okay creatures: calm time, well done, feeling worried and feeling sad. They can help children show how they feel, or let them know that calm time is coming next. If you're working on feelings more generally, our feelings check-in chart and worry monster printable may help too.

When to look for more support

If your child finds changes very hard, has frequent meltdowns around transitions, or you're wondering about autism or speech and language needs, talk to your health visitor, GP, or your child's nursery or school SENCo. They can also help tailor visual supports to your child.

Now and next board FAQs

What age is a now and next board for?

From around 18 months to 2 years, and for as long as it helps. Many older children with additional needs continue to use them.

What's the difference between now and next and first and then?

They work the same way. "First and then" is often used when the first task is less enjoyable and the second is a motivator. "Now and next" is more neutral and is used to show the sequence of the day.

Should I use photos or symbols?

Either works. Some children understand photos of real places and objects more easily. Symbols are quicker to make and more consistent. The printable includes blank cards so you can add your own photos.

Is a now and next board only for autistic children?

No. It's often recommended for autistic children, but any child who finds transitions hard can benefit.

This article is general information for parents and educators, not medical advice. If you have concerns about your child's development, please speak to your health visitor, GP or a qualified professional.