Classroom Management

Timers are something that are constantly being used in my room. This year my large visual timer caused more problems therefore we had to get rid of it. It also was hard to set multiple timers at once for multiple students. We have started using our phones for timers with our students. I was introduced to Countdown but Jenn actually in our last class (thanks Jenn!). I find some of my students have a hard time visualizing how much time they have left on their break when they are being told. At times it has caused meltdowns due to the fact they didn't understand how "short" a minute actually was. I started using this timer app with a few of the students and it has been a huge success.

You can set the timer for any amount you want. Once you start the timer, the countdown begins. The circle starts out green and as the timer goes on, the color changes from yellow to red. This adds another layer of visual for the student because they can see, as the color changes, the amount of time they have left is decreasing as well. The timer also starts to reveal a picture as the countdown is going on so at the end the student gets a full picture when the timer goes off. There are many features I have started to play around with as well. You can add or subtract within 10 second intervals as the timer is on. I have actually used this, as I needed a timer to go off a little sooner or a little later. It makes it easier than having to stop the timer completely and create a new one. Another feature I have loved it the "Child mode." In this mode, the screen can't be used. The child can't pause, stop, add or subtract time. This is a great mode for when you step away from the child while they are on their break. Lastly, some students find the picture behind the timer a distraction. You are easily able to get rid of the picture before you start the timer.

The students I have used this with really like it. They feel like they are in more control over their break times because they are able to see the timer itself, some even like to set it themselves! One thing I didn't care for with this app is the ads. Unless you pay for the app, you get a small ad in between each timer you set. Sometimes it got in the way when I needed to set one timer and then immediately set another one for anther student. Overall, I love this app and I'm so happy I was introduced to it! It really has changed the dreaded end of break times for my students.