The power of visual routines and timers for neurodiverse kids

January 9, 2025

The power of visual routines and timers for neurodiverse kids

Mornings can be hectic for families, especially when children with neurodiverse needs are involved. For kids who may face challenges in understanding instructions or transitioning between activities, visual routines and timers can be game-changing tools to simplify mornings and build confidence.


What are visual routines?

Visual routines use pictures, symbols, or charts to represent the steps of a daily activity, like a morning routine. Steps might include brushing teeth, getting dressed, and packing a school bag. These visual cues break tasks into manageable pieces, offering clarity and predictability.

For neurodiverse kids, visual routines reduce reliance on verbal instructions, which can sometimes be overwhelming. They provide a consistent reference point, making transitions between activities smoother and less stressful.


How timers make a difference

Adding timers to the mix can further enhance this system. Visual timers—such as those that use a shrinking red disk or color bar—help kids grasp the concept of time passing. These timers show how much time is left for each task, creating a clear and gentle prompt to stay focused.

Timers not only help children understand the pacing of their morning but also reduce the pressure of constant reminders from parents, fostering independence over time.


Why it works

By combining visual routines and timers, families can create a structured, supportive environment tailored to their child’s needs. This approach empowers neurodiverse children to tackle their morning routines with more independence, confidence, and success. A smoother start to the day often sets a positive tone for everything that follows, reducing stress for both children and parents.


Resources to help you get started

Here are some tools and resources to support visual routines and timers for neurodiverse children:


Visual schedule resources:


Visual timers:

  • Time timer
    A visual timer that helps individuals "see" time pass, easing stressful transitions by showing "how much longer."
  • Sensory timers
    Offers a range of sensory timers designed to enhance focus with visual and auditory cues.


Online resources


News & Insights

Check Our Latest Resources

Disability Awareness Hub: Understanding Megalocornea-Intellectual Disability Syndrome

September 10, 2025
Understanding Megalocornea-Intellectual Disability Syndrome

New NDIS Resources to Support Conversations about Restrictive Practices

September 10, 2025
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissio n has released a new suite of resources titled "Restrictive Practices and Me", designed to support meaningful conversations with participants when regulated restrictive practices are included in their behaviour support plans. These resources aim to uphold participants' rights and ensure that discussions around restrictive practices are accessible, respectful, and tailored to individual needs. Developed in collaboration with people with disability, NDIS providers, authorisation bodies, and advocacy organisations, the materials reflect a commitment to person-centred practice and transparency. What’s Included? The Restrictive Practices and Me toolkit features: A tip sheet for practitioners and providers Plain English and Easy Read discussion books A case study illustrating practical application A set of icons to visually represent different types of restrictive practices These resources are editable and adaptable, allowing practitioners to tailor content to each participant’s circumstances. For example, pages not relevant to a participant’s situation can be removed, and images can be reused in other formats. Why It Matters Under Section 20 of the NDIS (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules 2018, participants must be informed when restrictive practices are proposed. These conversations must be conducted in a way that is easy to understand and respectful of the participant’s autonomy. The Commission emphasises that restrictive practices should only be used as a last resort, and must be the least restrictive option available. They must be included in a behaviour support plan and follow the appropriate authorisation processes. Regulatory Priorities for 2025–26 This initiative aligns with the NDIS Commission’s broader regulatory priorities for 2025–26, which include: Reducing and eliminating regulated restrictive practices Strengthening oversight of unregistered providers Improving management of high-risk health concerns Ensuring providers support and train skilled workers Commissioner Louise Glanville reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to human rights, stating that “practices that restrict the rights or freedom of movement of people with disability can be traumatic, dangerous and breach basic human rights." Accessing the Resources The Restrictive Practices and Me resources are available for download on the NDIS Commission website . Providers are encouraged to use, adapt, and share these tools to foster informed, respectful, and rights-based conversations with participants. Link : Talking to participants about Restrictive Practices Reference: NDIS Commision 2025-26 priorities focus: participant rights and safer services

Tharon’s Thoughts: The Hidden Truth Behind “Good Behaviour”

September 10, 2025
 By Tharon Neurodivergent Consultant at helpz