Visual Schedules and Timers

Visual schedules and timers are tools that help turn time and tasks into something more concrete and predictable — which can be especially helpful for neurodivergent people.

A visual schedule might be a row of pictures showing the steps of getting ready in the morning, or icons laid out to show the structure of a school day. These visuals can help someone know what’s coming, what’s expected, and where they are in the sequence.

Timers — especially visual ones like sand timers, countdown clocks, or apps with shrinking colour bars — make the passing of time visible. This can ease transitions, reduce time blindness, and help with emotional regulation.

These tools are often used with children, but they’re just as useful for adults. Whether it’s a to-do list with icons or a Pomodoro timer on a desk, the goal is the same: more clarity, less anxiety.