Visual timers play an important role in the lives of a lot of people with special needs and make participation in crucial events and necessary activities more tolerable and manageable for all affected. In this article, I will discuss five scenarios where a visual timer will be very very helpful. 1. TransitioningVisual timers can be extremely helpful in aiding in transitions that are particularly difficult for people on the Autism Spectrum. My son Michael has Autism and finds it difficult to transition from a favorite activity to an activity that isn't his preferred. We use visual timers to assist in both types of situations. Michael loves the free time he gets on the computer each evening, after his therapist has left. If he was allowed, I am certain that he'd choose YouTube before bed if he could. Of course it is true that sleep is an essential part of our lives, so instead of us walking into the room and then suddenly removing him from his laptop without warning, prior to the time the therapist leaves her office, she creates a visual 25 minute timer so Michael is aware of the exact time is left until getting to bed. Make sure your tasks are current Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) that affects a lot of learners, could make them forget what they're trying to accomplish or lose track of their time. They also are more likely to become "lost" within their own thoughts. Visual timers are a great way to stay on task. The TimeTracker device is ideal for keeping track of your showering schedule. It is recommended to wash your body during the green light; shampoo your hair during the orange. Tolerating Unpreferred Activities Compliance and tolerating necessary but not preferred activities may be particularly challenging for people with cognitive challenges who may not understand the reasons they must engage in an activity , or what time the activity will last. A picture 7 minute timer that is a way to communicate the expectations of a learner, can be helpful. A visual timer allowed Michael to remain in the sanctuary of the synagogue for his brother's Bar Mitzvah and be part of this significant family celebration. Visual timers are useful for everyday tasks like cleaning your teeth, having a haircut, running on the treadmill, and many other routines that are essential to life techniques. Time Outs Although positive methods of teaching are always preferred over approaches that emphasize punishment, certain situations might warrant punishments such as an occasional time-out. What better way of showing that a child for the time limit he's required to be in his room or in his time-out chair or refrain from playing with his favorite toy, than with a visual timer. Promoting Independence Activity schedules are an excellent way to promote the independence of children with disabilities. Under the guidance of an activity calendar learners are able to independently switch from one activity to another and therefore, using a timer is essential. Spend some time researching activities and explore the many ways you can help your child to be more independent! This PowerPoint presentation is free and can help you get started by introducing Activity Schedules.
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April 2023
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