RoutiniusHow to use it with a child
- Say what the timer is for before you start: "When the yellow is gone, it's time to put shoes on." Type that into Until and Then so it shows on screen.
- Pick a time they can picture. For young children, short timers (2–10 minutes) work better than long ones.
- Put the screen where they can see it from where they're playing, and let the warnings do the reminding instead of you.
- When time's up, follow through with the "then". A timer works because it's predictable.
New to this? Our guide on how to explain time to a toddler covers why seeing time helps and how to introduce a timer.
Want it as an app, with routines?
This page is the free version of the timer in Routinius. The app adds picture routines (each step with its own timer), keeps the screen awake, notifies you if the phone locks, and turns bedtime into a slow fade to night.
Frequently asked questions
Does this timer work when the screen locks?
A browser tab can pause when the screen locks or you switch apps, so keep this page open and the screen on. The Routinius app keeps the screen awake and also sends a notification if the phone locks.
Can I make it full screen?
Yes. Tap Full screen. On iPhone, Safari doesn't allow true full screen for web pages, so add the page to your Home Screen or turn the phone sideways for a bigger view.
What are the 5, 2 and 1 minute warnings?
A soft chime plays as the timer passes 5, 2 and 1 minute left (only the ones shorter than your timer). Warnings before a change give children time to finish up instead of being stopped suddenly.