Getting Started Task Box: Task Initiation and First Steps at Work, Ages 14 to 21

This getting started task box teaches task initiation at work: picking the first step of a job, starting without being told, and knowing what to do when you are stuck.

**Why I made this:** I once watched a student hold a broom for five minutes before sweeping because he was not sure where to start. He needed permission to pick a first step and a plan for when he felt stuck. This box gives that practice with real job site examples.

**What’s included:**

• A 21 page PDF and an editable Word copy

• A teacher page with exact counts and a 2 week plan

• Level A ●: 12 near errorless first step cards with pictures, in 16 point type

• Level B ■: 24 cards with 3 real steps from the same job

• Level C ▲: 24 twist cards (wrong tool, missing list, someone already started)

• A getting started mat and a "stuck at the start" reference page

• 3 practice pages, an answer key with twists marked, a new executive function data sheet, a 10 session graph, a try it for real page with a 5 item adult check, and blank cards

**How to use it:** Teach the "stuck at the start" steps: look at the list, ask one question, try the first step. Students work one level at a time with self check codes. Then give a real job without the first step and use the adult check.

**Who it’s for:** High school special education teachers, 18 to 21 program teachers, job coaches, and paras building job site independence with students ages 14 to 21.

**Format:** PDF, US Letter, 21 pages, plus an editable Word copy. Level markers use a word plus a shape, so it works in black and white.

**How this is different:** Following Directions on the Job Task Box | Job Skills for Transition teaches following steps someone gives you. Job Site Self Monitoring Checklists + Daily Work Log | Transition + Vocational covers a whole shift. This box is only about starting: the first step, and what to do when you are stuck.

**Pairs with:** Following Directions on the Job Task Box | Job Skills for Transition; Workplace Behavior Task Box | Job Skills Soft Skills for Transition

Made by Jeremy D. Gooch, special education teacher and transition coordinator. Drafting and layout had AI assistance; every page was checked by me.