Libby Public Schools: Sequencing

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First, Next, Then
Beginning, Middle, End
1 - 2 - 3
A - B - C
Sequencing is the ability to logically order events, images, thoughts, and actions. Why is sequencing important for children? Sequencing is a very important concept for preschool children to develop since it allows children to recognize patterns that make the world more understandable and predictable


Without being aware of it we sequence all the time. From the moment we wake up and have our first thought through the day as we get up to start our day with showering, dressing, making our meals, reading the paper, traveling to work or school.Everything we do is part of a sequence of events within an activity, a day or week. Every step in the process has a consequence for the next step. In some instances we can randomly choose what steps to take for instance, do I eat my potatoes and then my vegetables, it does not really matter. However in other instances it is important we go through the steps in sequence, e.g. If I put my mittens on first it is going to be very difficult to zip up my coat, or if I make spaghetti  I need to boil the noodles first before I pour on the sauce.

Children learn and use sequencing from birth, it becomes more complex as the child develops. Difficulties with sequencing are often seen in children with language or executive functioning delays as well as in children with more global developmental delays.

Areas of Sequencing:
  • Language: Arrange ideas, information and language
  • Physical Tasks; e.g. Walking and Talking
  • Activities of Daily living: Grooming, Dressing, Shopping and  Cooking
  • Academics: Reading, Writing and Math
  • Other: Work and Play
Can sequencing be learned? Yes it takes a lot of practice, however, since it is part of our everyday life it is easy to incorporate into the child's day. Use sequencing words deliberately such as First, Next, Then, Before and After, are very helpful and sets up the sequence of events, e.g. First we are going to have lunch, next you will take a nap and then we shall go to the park.  Physically having your child participate in putting things in order, is also an easy and quick way to incorporate sequencing, e.g. get the plate and knife, the bread peanut butter and jelly. Then make the sandwich. Sequencing can also be taught through specific sequencing activities which tend to be playful and fun.

Sample  of Sequencing Activities:
  • Use First, Next, Then
  • Use a visual planner or cues
  • Read a story and talk with your child about the sequence of events
  • Plan an activity e.g. tea party, pick-nick, 
  • Write a story, draw a comic (beginning, middle, end)
  • Set up an obstacle course in the house or yard
  • Building toys: e.g Lego's, Tinker Toys, Blocks
  • Pattern activities: e.g string beads first red, next blue, then white etc.
  • Relay races: Large pair of boots pants and shirt, put them on, race and pass them to the next person
  • Item Hunt; Use numbers, letters or items and look for them, you can hide them to make it harder, find the items in order, find the alphabet on signs while driving
  • Games: e.g sequence, master mind, chess, checkers (try to anticipate the next steps)
  • Cooking: Cook simple meals and treats with your child

Exposing your child to more opportunities to sequence can be done fairly easy, all it takes is time spend with your child, and deliberately break down the tasks verbally, physically or both, for your child. And of course have some fun with it, children learn and remember when activities are fun and seemingly effortless. 

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