First, Then (at school)

First, Then (at School) / Premack Principle for Instant Classroom Motivation

First-Then boards use a simple promise—“First math, then iPad”—to turn reluctant students into willing participants. By pairing any non-preferred assignment with an immediate, high-value reward, teachers can boost task completion, smooth transitions, and cut down on classroom power struggles.

Why use First-Then in school?

• Higher compliance and work completion. Research on Premack-based schedules shows 30–60 % jumps in on-task behavior when a clear reward follows the demand.
• Fewer escape behaviors and refusals. A visible, predictable payoff reduces anxiety and tantrums linked to challenging work.
• Fits any subject or routine. The quick “first X, then Y” phrasing slips into centers, specials, recess transitions, and independent work with virtually no prep.

What you’ll unlock inside BIP Visualized:

• A step-by-step overview of how to use this evidence-based strategy
• Ability to customize images and descriptions to individualize for your learner
• Aligning, printable visual resources to support teaching and generalization
• Ability to add this visual strategy and more to build a custom-made visual BIP tailored to your learner’s needs

Start your free trial to access the First-Then strategy and build a personalized, team-friendly visual Behavior Intervention Plan today.