What will actually help my child with ADHD? There are so many products out there... here are a few that have been tested by us both in the classroom and at home!
Timers
Timers help people with ADHD because time, on its own, is a vague suggestion our brains politely ignore. A timer turns “I’ll do it later” into “Oh no, it’s happening now,” giving tasks the urgency they need to actually start. It makes time visible, measurable, and just annoying enough to keep you on track. Whether it’s preventing a five-minute chore from turning into a three-hour side quest or keeping hyperfocus from swallowing the whole afternoon, timers are basically the external brain we wish we were born with.
Factors when picking out a Timer:
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Large, easy-to-read display — so kids can actually see time passing
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Visual countdown (colors, disappearing sections, moving discs) — helps combat time blindness
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Simple buttons — fewer steps = fewer meltdowns
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Loud but not startling alarms — enough to get attention, not enough to launch them into orbit
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Durable design — because it will be dropped, tossed, or used as a spaceship
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Portable size — works at home, school, or in the car
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Adjustable volume — essential for sensory-sensitive kids
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Silent operation (no constant ticking) — prevents sensory overload
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Vibrating option — great for discreet cues in classrooms
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Color-coded time segments — helps with transitions and visual understanding
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Battery or USB option — because nothing derails a routine like dead batteries
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Built-in stand or magnet — so it can live on a desk or fridge
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Clear start/stop button — easier for independent use
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Optional preset times — perfect for homework, reading, or screen-time routines
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