Countdown Warnings

Your child melts down when asked to switch activities

Steps

Give a 10-minute warning before a transition
Give a 5-minute warning
Give a 2-minute warning
Use a visual timer they can SEE counting down
Acknowledge: 'I know it's hard to stop. Let's save your place'

What you need

Visual timer (sand timer or phone timer display)

Why it works

Children with ADHD and Autism often hyperfocus on current activities and struggle with cognitive flexibility. Abrupt transitions feel like having something snatched away. Countdown warnings give the brain time to gradually disengage and prepare for what's next, reducing the neurological 'shock' of sudden change.

Age guidance

Essential for ages 3-12. Even adults with ADHD benefit from transition warnings. Younger children may need more frequent countdowns.

Real-world example

A parent who had been saying 'time to go!' and getting meltdowns every time started using 10-5-2-1 minute warnings with a visual timer. The first few days their child still protested at the final warning, but by the end of the first week, transitions were happening without tears for the first time.

Troubleshooting

Some children need MORE warnings (15, 10, 5, 2, 1)
If verbal warnings aren't working, try a gentle touch on the shoulder with the warning