How to Use a Time Timer Dry Erase Board for Daily Routines
By The Autism Community Store | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to pair the Time Timer Dry Erase Board with a visual schedule to build consistent daily routines for autistic children. Step-by-step setup and usage tips included.
Quick answer
The Time Timer Dry Erase Board turns any Time Timer MOD into a visual command center for daily routines. Write reminders, draw a simple visual schedule, or list tasks directly on the board, then let the timer count down to build time awareness and reduce transitions anxiety.
Why pair a dry erase board with a visual timer
Many autistic children understand what they need to do but struggle with how long they have to do it. A visual timer like the Time Timer MOD shows the passage of time in a concrete way, while a dry erase board adds space for the task itself. Together, they turn an abstract concept — time — into something a child can see and follow.
The Time Timer Dry Erase Board is designed as an accessory that fits over the MOD (with a silicone case required). It gives you a writable surface for reminders, visual schedules, to-do lists, or any time-sensitive message. This combination works especially well for morning routines, homework blocks, or winding down before bed.
Step-by-step: Set up your Time Timer Dry Erase Board for daily routines
- Attach the board to your Time Timer MOD: Make sure your Time Timer MOD has a silicone case on. Slide the Dry Erase Board over the face of the timer until it clicks or sits flush. The board should not wobble or block the timer dial. Checkpoint: If the board feels loose, the silicone case may be missing or the wrong size. Do not force it.
- Write or draw the routine tasks for the day: Use a dry erase marker to list 2-4 tasks (e.g., brush teeth, get dressed, eat breakfast). For non-readers, draw simple icons or use magnetic picture symbols like the Magnetic Picture Symbols: Home Collection. Place them in order from top to bottom. Common mistake: Writing too many tasks at once. Keep the list short so the child can focus and feel a sense of accomplishment.
- Set the timer and explain the sequence: Turn the Time Timer dial to the total time for the routine (e.g., 20 minutes for morning). Point to the first task and say, 'First, brush teeth. The red disk will disappear as time goes. When it's gone, we move to the next task.' Checkpoint: Let the child press the start button or turn the dial if possible. This builds ownership of the routine.
- Erase and update for the next routine: After the routine ends, wipe the board clean with a soft cloth or eraser. Write the next routine's tasks (e.g., after-school homework) or reuse the same list if the schedule is consistent daily. Pro tip: Use a different color marker for each routine (e.g., blue for morning, green for evening) so the child can visually distinguish them.
Product facts
- Time Timer Dry Erase Board..(Mod Accessory)..: The Time Timer Dry Erase board enhances your Time Timer MOD by adding space for reminders, notes and more. The MOD must include a silicone case to fit correctly in the Dry Erase Board. This multi-functional board serves as a message center, perfect for managing time-sensitive messages, creating visual schedules, jotting down to-do lists, and keeping everyone on track. You get a reusable surface that turns a simple timer into a complete daily planning tool. The silicone-case requirement is a small extra step but ensures the board stays secure during use.
- Magnetic Picture Symbols: Home..Home and Headings..(93pc): These magnetic visual schedule cards can stick to any magnetic surface, and can help teach routines, improve behavior and communication, and more. This 93 piece Home Collection includes 72 Home-Themed Activity Magnets and 21 Headings. Best used with a 2-Sided Magnetic Board. If your Time Timer Dry Erase Board is magnetic (check your specific model), you can attach these pre-made picture symbols directly to the board, creating a visual schedule that the child can see and manipulate alongside the timer.
