Clock rings

About this visual support

A sharp ring in the middle of play can land as an annoying noise rather than a message. An unexplained sound can even make a child flinch or freeze, unsure whether it is meant for them. For the signal to mean something, your child needs to know the clock rings for a reason and that a set step follows it.

A visual schedule turns the sound into a clear marker instead of a surprise. Next to the picture of the ringing clock, place the picture of what happens now, such as going to get dressed or sitting down at the table. Your child hears the signal and can look at where it leads, without you having to explain over the noise. Talk the link through once while things are calm, so the sound already feels familiar by the time it actually rings.

When you want the signal tied into the rest of the day, you can add the clock and the steps it starts in the Routined app. Try it at no cost for fourteen days and see how a single sound can become a steady turning point.