Transitioning can feel disjointed, unsettling, and even scary for a child. It can feel like the rug is ripped out from under them while they scramble to find solid ground.
What if it feels like that each time your child transitions from day-to-day activities? Here are practical ways to set your child up for success and make transitions feel steadier for the whole family.
The Power of Prompts and Visuals
Prompts and visuals provide a clear roadmap of what to expect. Instead of a sudden change, give your child a clear expectation ahead of time.
- Use time-based prompts: 15 minutes, 10 minutes, and 5 minutes before the shift.
- Provide visuals of where they are going and what they can expect when they get there.
Sensory-Based Shifts
If your child has a hard time with transitions, it is helpful to use both language and sensory experience to facilitate the shift. Once you prepare their mind, give their body a way to regulate during the change.
- Play a game of I-Spy on the way to the bathroom.
- Ask them to notice 3 green items in the room.
- Hum or clap a tune and see if they can repeat it, then switch roles.
Movement as a Bridge
Getting the body moving in fun, active ways can act as a bridge between one place and another. It turns a potential power struggle into a shared moment of play.
- See how many BIG steps it takes to get to the dinner table.
- Do jumping jacks while putting on a jacket.
- Show off a 'best twirl' or dance move while making your way to the car.
Name it to Tame it
When emotions get big during a transition—NAME THEM. Acknowledging the feeling out loud helps normalize the experience and lowers the intensity.
As parents, it is OK to name feelings, even if they are your own. What’s even better is to add a moment of regulation to the naming: a deep breath, a tight squeeze, or a simple chant.
- The soccer game feels intense? 'Wow, this is a lot, it’s feeling intense to me.'
- The birthday party feels overwhelming? 'It’s overwhelming when there is so much noise.'
- The dentist feels scary? 'It can feel scary going to the dentist.'
