What are external cues?

External cues are things around you that tell you what to do or how to act, like a friend tapping your shoulder to get your attention.

Imagine you’re playing with your favorite toy, and suddenly your mom calls out from the kitchen: “Time for dinner!” That’s an external cue, it tells you to stop playing and go eat. Just like that call is a signal to move from one activity to another, external cues are signals from outside of you that help you know what to do next.

Think of your morning routine: the sound of your alarm clock ringing is an external cue that tells you it’s time to wake up. Or maybe your favorite song starts playing, that can be a cue too! It's like having a friend whisper in your ear, “It’s time to get ready for school!”

Sometimes, external cues are things you see or hear every day, like the bell at school ringing to signal recess, or the smell of your lunch telling you it’s time to eat. These outside signals help you know when to start, stop, or switch between activities, just like a map helps you find your way.