Now and Next Board
Two-slot blank display.
A two-slot blank display card that shows students exactly what is happening right now and what comes immediately after. The large format makes it easy to read from across a classroom, and the simple two-section layout removes the cognitive load of scanning a full timetable. Special-education teachers, early-years practitioners, and mainstream classroom teachers all use Now and Next boards to reduce transition anxiety, especially for students with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or sensory processing differences. The template arrives blank so teachers can write activities by hand, add printed picture symbols, or attach Velcro-backed cards. It prints well at A4 for desktop use or A3 for a wall-mounted display, and a laminated copy doubles as a reusable wipe-clean board that updates in seconds throughout the day.
Learning objectives
- Reduce transition anxiety by previewing the very next activity
- Support students with ASD, ADHD, or anxiety with a predictable visual cue
- Minimise verbal reminders during lesson changeovers
- Build understanding of simple sequencing and cause-and-effect (do this, then that)
- Empower students to self-monitor their own task completion
- Provide a consistent visual anchor for early-years and special-education settings
How to use this template
- Print at A4 or A3 and laminate for repeated daily use.
- Write or attach a picture symbol for the current activity in the NOW box.
- Write or attach the immediately following activity in the NEXT box.
- Display the board where the student can easily see it — on their desk, the classroom wall, or a small personal clipboard.
- Update the board at each transition by sliding new cards in or wiping and rewriting the activity names.
Classroom & home ideas
- Place a personal laminated copy on the desk of any student who struggles with unexpected changes to the day's routine.
- Use picture-symbol cards attached with Velcro so non-readers can understand the board independently.
- Set up a classroom-wide version at the front of the room as a calm visual anchor during morning circle.
- Send a printed mini-version home so parents can use the same visual structure for after-school routines.
- In intervention pull-out sessions, use the board to show the student what activity they are doing and that they will return to class next.
Skills & curriculum links
Frequently asked questions
Is this only for students with special needs?
No. While Now and Next boards are especially powerful for students with ASD or ADHD, any early-years class benefits from the visual clarity. Many mainstream Reception and Year 1 teachers use them class-wide.
How do I add picture symbols to the blank template?
Print or draw small pictures and attach them with Velcro dots or double-sided tape inside each box. Free symbol libraries like Widgit or Boardmaker symbols can be printed and cut to size.
Can I make a personal copy for each student?
Yes. Print at A5 for a desk-sized personal board, laminate it, and keep a set of dry-erase markers handy so each student's board shows their individual schedule.
What if my school uses a three-step sequence?
The blank format lets you relabel the boxes. Simply write NOW / NEXT / AFTER and use the space below each heading for the activity. Alternatively, print two copies side by side for a three-panel display.
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