How to understand the concept of Time

The concept of time is abstract for young children. Expressions like “in 10 minutes,” “after snack time,” or “tomorrow” are difficult to grasp. Yet, learning to organize their day is essential for developing independence and for smoother transitions. At My Little Concept, we design visual learning tools — routine clocks, weekly planners, and illustrated schedules — that make time visible and concrete.

Why do children struggle to understand time?

Children under 7 live in the present moment. The past and the future are abstract notions they gradually learn to understand. Without visual support, time remains an invisible idea — they cannot see or touch it.

Concrete examples:
– They don’t understand “in 5 minutes” because they can’t measure duration.
– They confuse “yesterday” and “tomorrow.”
– They resist transitions (“time to clean up!”) because they can’t anticipate what’s next.

👉 That’s why making time visible helps children structure their day and feel more secure.

Visual tools: the key to making time concrete

Visual aids like routine clocks, magnetic planners, or illustrated weekly schedules allow children to see the flow of their day. Each moment is identifiable through a color or pictogram.

Example:
Morning: yellow (getting ready, breakfast).
Afternoon: blue (quiet time, play, snack).
Evening: purple (dinner, brush teeth, bedtime).

➡️ Discover our routine clocks
➡️ See our weekly planners

How to introduce the concept of time at home

1. Use visual cues: say things like “When the red hand is down, we’ll tidy up.”
2. Repeat routines daily: consistency builds security.
3. Involve your child: let them move the icons or choose the colors.
4. Show time passing: a visual clock helps them see time move forward.

The benefits for autonomy

– Children anticipate transitions (fewer conflicts).
– They become active participants in their day.
– They develop self-confidence.
– They better understand sequences and duration.

➡️ Discover our tools for developing autonomy

Parent testimonials

“Since we set up the routine clock, my daughter gets ready on her own in the morning. Time is no longer stressful — it’s a guide.”
— Sophie, mother of Lila (5 years old)

“The weekly planner helped our son understand when he was going to grandma’s or school. He loves moving the icons!”
— Mathieu, father of Noé (4 years old)

Learn more

Why children struggle to understand time
How to set up a visual routine at home
Our educational clocks made in France

In summary

Helping a child understand time means giving them the ability to act, organize, and feel confident. With My Little Concept’s visual tools, time becomes visible, reassuring, and concrete.