May 10, 2021. Sequencing in Special Education. Sequencing is putting items or events in order. In special education, we may use phrases such as first, then, or first, next, then to let students know the order in which something will happen. We often use this when a student will be receiving a reward or motivational activity at the end. Sequencing helps our students know what will happen next. A predictable routine helps our students throughout their day. Why is it important? In special education, students need to be able to do a routine in a specific sequence. They also need to understand that certain events need to happen before other events. For example, in cooking, students need to take the ingredients out of the refrigerator before they can eat. As stated before, sequencing can help students understand when the reward is coming or the end of the activity is coming. We also use sequencing in hygiene and grooming routines. From washing hands, brushing teeth, and getting dressed, our students use sequencing. How to support your students. Here are a few activities to help practice sequencing with your students from fun to functional. These sets have everything you need to show pictures and put them in the correct order. My students love doing these activities as reinforcing skills or motivating practice. The set below focuses on seasonal tasks such as making lemonade, eating an ice cream cone, and making a snowman. This set below focuses on life skills tasks such as hand washing, brushing teeth, and feeding a pet. This set below focuses on fun tasks such as reading a treasure map, animals, and sports. You can also grab these three sets in the complete bundle below.