Classroom timer
A big disc that shrinks as time runs out, readable from the back row. Put it full screen on the board.
Minutes
Routines
Alarm & notification settings
Sound needs one tap on the page first (a browser rule). Keep this tab open: closing it stops every timer’s alarm. Why timers stay accurate in background tabs.
Using a visual timer in class
Visual timers turn an abstract idea (time passing) into something children can see. Many teachers and occupational therapists use them for transitions, independent work and turn-taking, because the question “how long left?” answers itself.
- Say the task and the time together: “You have five minutes to finish the sentence starters.”
- Give a halfway check. When the disc is half gone, say so. It helps pacing more than a last-minute warning.
- Pick a calm sound. The soft chime ends an activity without startling anyone; save the beep for the playground.
- Hide the numbers for younger pupils, so the disc is the only thing they need to read.
For timed talks and student presentations, the presentation timer turns green, amber and red. For several groups on different tasks, the timer board runs a labelled timer per group.
Questions
How do I show a timer on the classroom screen?
Open this page on the computer connected to your projector or board, pick a length and press Full screen (or the F key). The disc fills the screen and the numbers stay large enough to read from the back of the room.
Why a visual timer for kids?
Younger children often can’t yet read a clock or judge how long “five minutes” is. A disc that shrinks shows how much time is left at a glance, which helps with transitions and independent work.
Can I turn off the sound?
Yes. Choose the soft chime or switch the alarm sound off in the settings. The disc turns red when time is up, so the class sees it either way.
Can I hide the numbers?
Yes. Tick “Hide the numbers” to show only the shrinking disc, which works well for pre-readers.