The best liquid timers for kids with autism

Liquid timers have so many uses with kids with autism at home, in the classroom and during therapy sessions. At my autism center, I love to use them during table sessions, I give them as reinforcers during sensory breaks and I even include them when designing a sensory room.

What is a liquid timer?

A liquid motion timer is a fun and soothing tool for relaxation, reinforcement and sensory fun. Use it as a parent, teacher or therapist to provide sensory breaks, reinforce learning and help your little one relax.

3 liquid timers we love

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Orange Liquid Motion Bubble Timer

This solid orange liquid motion bubble timer’s shape makes it easy to hold – perfect for little learners with weaker fine motor skills or hand strength. It’s flat top and bottom also make it easy to place on the desk if you are using it during table sessions. I love the color and that you can watch the liquid swirl around inside.

Hourglass Liquid Motion Bubbler Timer (Pack of 3)

These hourglass liquid motion bubbler timers are the liquid timers I go back to again and again at my autism center and in my home programs for individuals on the autism spectrum. I’ve found that kids and adults alike love them. I use them to provide sensory breaks, I incorporate them into sensory rooms, and I use them as sensory timers during table sessions.

They’re slightly less bulky than the other options, making them easy to slip into a backpack or your handbag if heading out with your child or students.

hourglass liquid timers for kids with autism

Color Drop Liquid Timer

This color drop liquid timer is such a fun swizzle shape that kids love. The liquid moves slowly make it especially relaxing for your little learners. It’s also fun that this sensory timer comes in different colors, so if your child or students have a particular preference, you can choose their favorite color(s).

More Sensory Materials for Autistic Children

Autism Chew Toys
Sensory Toys (the 10 must-have sensory toys for kids on the autism spectrum)
Wooden Play Dough Tools (our favorites!)
Sensory Room at Home (how to create a simple sensory room at home on a budget)
Benefits of Sensory Rooms in Schools

More Autism Learning Resources

The Successful Interaction with a Child with Autism Course – learn to better understand your autistic child or students with this complete course.
Autism Activities Workbook Bundle – build communication skills, fine motor skills, sensory play skills and daily living skills, while helping your child or students to successfully manage any difficult behaviors, with these fun, educational, printable activities.
Sensory Communication Workbook – Build communication skills with simple sensory activities.
How to Make a Communication Binder Guide & Workbook – Learn how to create a Communication Binder for your child or student with autism using real photos. Follow my expert guide to learn how to use it to increase communication skills.
Zoo Animals Play Dough Mats Bundle – use these printable play dough mat to work on the names of the animals, build language skills, and increase fine motor strength and precision in a fun, sensory way!