Guides

Routines, visual schedules and calmer transitions, starting with what you can do today with paper and a timer.

Routines and visual schedules

How to make a visual schedule (paper or app)

Make a visual schedule your child will actually follow: choose the routine, break it into 4–8 picture steps, and use it the same way every day.

Morning routine chart for kids (with times that work)

A morning routine chart that gets kids out the door: the steps, how long each takes, sample charts by age, and how to keep it from turning into nagging.

Timers and transitions

How to explain time to a toddler ("5 more minutes")

Toddlers can't read clocks, but they can see time. How to make minutes visible with timers, routines and warnings, so transitions get easier.

Bedtime

Bedtime routine for toddlers: steps, timing and stalling

A simple toddler bedtime routine that winds down instead of dragging on: the steps, how long it should take, and what to do about 'one more' stalling.

Autism, ADHD and extra support

First-then board: what it is and how to use one

A first-then board shows two pictures: the task first, then the reward. How to make one, use it consistently, and when to move on to a full visual schedule.

Setting up your iPhone or iPad

How to lock an iPhone or iPad to one app for kids

Use Guided Access to keep your child inside one app: turn it on, start a session with a triple-click, set a time limit, and end it with your passcode.