Let's Talk: Tips For Smooth Transitions
- Cassie Wilson
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Transitions are a huge part of many children’s lives. From waking up to bedtime, there’s a lot of change and movement happening.
We work with kids daily and have seen firsthand how the right approach to transitions can transform chaos into calm. Whether it's switching from playtime to homework or dealing with bigger changes like moving houses, the key lies in communication and how we guide kids through these shifts.
Why Transitions Can Be Tricky
Time perception is different for kids: Five minutes can feel like forever OR zip by in a flash depending on the day/activity
Loss of control: Changes often mean letting go of something enjoyable
Processing time: Kids need more time than adults to shift gears mentally
Game-Changing Strategies That Actually Work
Visual schedules: Create a colourful chart showing daily routines - let your child decorate it and even move around stickers (there are some great printable downloads on Etsy)
Previews: Give them a heads-up before changes. "In 10 minutes, we'll be heading to the car."
Use of Music: Create transition songs or use simple timers with fun melodies (shoutout to classical conditioning)
Choices: Offer simple choices - "Would you like to put away LEGO first or the markers?"
Tackling Bigger Transitions
Moving homes? Starting a new school? These bigger changes need extra care:
Create a transition book: Fill it with photos of the new place and exciting things to look forward to
Practice runs: Visit and explore new locations multiple times before the big change
Maintain routines: Keep some parts of their day exactly the same for stability
Making Charts, So Satisfying!
Here's our favourite part - getting kids involved in creating their own transition tools
Morning routine charts: Let them draw or pick pictures for each step
Weekly calendars: Use fun stickers or symbols to mark different activities
Achievement trackers: Celebrate smooth transitions with special markers or stamps
Transitions won’t always be perfect. Be sure to pay attention to what works with each kid individually and play on that. Building confidence and developing the skills to roll with the punches is so important as children get older. Some days will be smoother than others, and that's perfectly okay!
What strategies have worked for your family? Share your transition wins in the comments below!
STORY HIGHLIGHT: Sleepover at Aunt Frankie's
Tanisha adores weekends at her super cool Aunt Frankie's house! But when dad arrives to take her to swimming lessons, the fun screeches to a halt. Swimming simply doesn’t compare to auntie time! Through gentle guidance, Tanisha learns that every activity can hold its own kind of joy - and best of all, Aunt Frankie's house will always be there for the next adventure.
Comments