Neurodivergence and Trauma: Understanding Time Blindness
As we’ve discussed in part one and part two of our Neurodivergence and Trauma series, there are many common traits that present in neurodivergent children, and in those who have suffered trauma. In this article, Sarah helps us to understand Time Blindness, and how a little extra support from parents or carers can help our children to feel safe, supported and more in control.
What is Time Blindness?
Some children can’t easily sense or manage time passing. This is called time blindness. It’s common in Autism (ASD) and ADHD, and it’s caused by how their brain works — not laziness.
Why it Happens
There are several different parts of the brain involved in perceiving and managing time:
- Frontal Cortex: Helps us plan and organise. If it works differently, managing time is harder.
- Basal Ganglia: Helps us predict “how long” something will take.
- Cerebellum: Helps us process timing as well as movement.
When these areas process things differently, a child may struggle to judge, feel, or keep track of time.
How it Shows Up:
- Children: Asking “when will it start?” over and over, upset by sudden changes.
- Teens: Trouble sticking to school schedules, underestimating homework time.
- Adults: Missing deadlines, struggling with routines.
Everyday Challenges:
- Finding it hard to predict how long things take (e.g. a journey or homework).
- Believing they have “lots of time” when really they don’t.
- Swinging between extremes:
- Doing nothing all day because of one 3pm appointment.
- Thinking a task will take 20 minutes when it really takes 3 hours.
This can make them over-promise, run late, or feel overwhelmed.
The Stigma:
Children with time blindness may be seen as “lazy” or “inconsiderate.” In reality, it’s a neurological difference — not a choice.
Ways to Help as a Carer:
- Use visual timers or apps that show time passing.
- Keep structured, predictable routines.
- Give reminders with alarms or schedules.
- Offer gentle warnings before transitions (“In 5 minutes we’ll tidy up”).
With understanding, structure, and empathy, you can help children feel safe, supported, and more in control of their day.
Other articles in our Neurodivergence and Trauma series:
