Choosing a Timer for Your Routine
Start with the purpose: do you want to see how much time is left, or watch flowing colour? A visual countdown shows time remaining for activities and breaks. Liquid timers offer movement to watch without a precise countdown.
Compare Visual Countdown Timers
Choose by size, sound and power source. Both timers show a countdown of up to 60 minutes and make a sound when time is up.
Compact display without continuous ticking.
- Countdown
- Up to 60 minutes
- During use
- No continuous ticking
- End sound
- Audible alarm; cannot be switched off
- Power
- 2 × AAA batteries, not included
- Approximate size
- 9 × 9 × 4 cm
View Time Keeper →
Larger display with audible ticking and no batteries.
- Countdown
- Up to 60 minutes
- During use
- Audible ticking
- End sound
- Audible bell
- Power
- Mechanical; no batteries
- Approximate size
- 20 × 20 × 5 cm
View mechanical timer →
Compare the compact, battery-powered Time Keeper Visual Timer with the larger, battery-free Countdown Mechanical Timer. Choose the viewing size and sound that suit your routine; both offer a countdown of up to 60 minutes.
Liquid Timers for Visual Sensory Breaks
Liquid timers work through movement and gravity rather than a selectable countdown. Offer them for watching and exploration. Choose a countdown timer when a particular duration matters.
For flowing colour, compare the Two Drop Liquid Timer and Cross Over Liquid Timer. These provide flowing visual displays rather than precise countdowns.
Using a Visual Timer at Home or School
Explain the activity and set a manageable duration together. Place the timer where it can be seen. Explain what happens when the alarm sounds, such as finishing a task or taking a break.
For classrooms, use a visible countdown for activity blocks, turn-taking and transitions. For purchasing help, see our School Orders page.
Use That Fits the Person
Explain an activity and its timing clearly, offer a manageable duration and choose feedback that suits the person. A timer can provide information about what comes next without assuming it will change behaviour, improve focus or produce a calming result.
Age and Care
Follow each product's age, supervision and care instructions. The liquid timers are described for ages 5+ with adult supervision. Keep sealed displays intact and stop using damaged or leaking items. Check battery requirements and keep components away from children below the recommended age.