Transition tips for parents

Many children struggle with transitions, which are common triggers for challenging behaviours. Being prepared with strategies is key. Here are a few tips to help with your child’s daily transitions.

• Create a routine. Maintain consistency as much as possible by laying out and sticking with a schedule or routine. Make sure not to rush as this will give your child extra time to adjust. You will also be calmer which will help your child to stay calm too. 

• Prepare your child. Help your child to know what to expect in a day. Give children advanced warning for how long an activity will last.

• Use a visual schedule. This makes it clear what a child should expect and what is coming up next. It may be helpful to put activities that the child may find more challenging at the start of the day when they are less tired. 

• Use a transition object. Transition objects are personal possessions that offer security and comfort to the child. Objects could include toys, stuffed animals and blankets.

• The art of distraction. Try using songs, bubbles and movement activities that will help the child move from point A to point B. 

• Try a sensory circuit. Sensory circuits help to regulate children’s sensory input from their environment. They can be a great way to both energise and settle children ready for the day. Sensory circuits are completed in a three-step process which includes alerting, organising and calming stages. You could set up your own sensory circuit at home using the examples below.

For more information on setting up a sensory circuit at home please watch the following video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EpBSD3dJnM

Every child is unique and has their own individual transition needs. Therefore what works for one child may not work for another. It is important to try different strategies to figure out what works best for you and your child. 

Always remember… you are your child’s best therapist!

Abi and Joel 

Student Occupational Therapists

Next week our blog will focus on… ‘The Transition Toolbox’.

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