Good Systems · public information library

What can I do to help my child when they are always losing track of time?

People come here to understand why something in everyday life feels harder, different or more costly than it should — and what might make it work better.

Short answer

Use visual time cues and build in transition time.

What this can look like

A child can be absorbed in play and genuinely not feel the time to leave.

Why it can happen

Children are still learning how time passes, especially when they are absorbed. A timer, countdown and “leave-by” routine can make the next step more visible without shaming.

What might help

Use a visual timer and an early warning tied to the next activity.

What the research helps explain

Australian ADHD guidance and international consensus evidence describe ADHD as affecting everyday functioning for some children, including attention, planning, memory, time and follow-through. Practical supports can be useful regardless of whether ADHD is part of the picture.

What can vary

Development, sleep, health, learning, stress, environment and task design can create similar patterns. A public page cannot diagnose ADHD or replace an individual assessment; seek appropriate advice for persistent or concerning difficulties.

For this situation

For you, set the cue for the transition action—shoes on, screen off, bag packed—not only the final time.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.