Transitions can be difficult for many young children, especially if they've experienced any adverse childhood experiences or have unpredictable routines outside of your classroom. Providing as much warning as possible, before transitioning will help. For example, telling that child individually, or the whole group, they've got five more minutes and setting a visual timer (one that changes in color or is in some way visually indicating the time fading) so that all can prepare for the next activity and reduce frustration with change. Following up with a nice (and specific comment) is also helpful, when the student chose to transition when expected (e.g. "I really like the way you came in from recess when the rest of your friends came in...."
Lastly, for those who may need more support than others, a whole group visual schedule can help. Taking pictures of areas of play, snack, lunch, recess and placing them on a velcro strip can let everyone know what to expect for the day. Once activities are over, remove the pictures and place them in an "all done" pocket. Young children learn to predict the next activity and how the day may unfold. This reduces anxieties brought about by sudden change.
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Amanda E. Carlson, MS.Ed.
Program Specialist
San Diego
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Original Message:
Sent: 10-15-2021 02:06 PM
From: Elizabeth Glidden
Subject: Transitions within the day
Hello All,
I have a four year old who struggles with transitions. He doesn't want to come into class. He doesn't want to go home. He doesn't want to come to circle time. He doesn't want circle time to finish. He does not want to change activities throughout the day. He is a great, happy kid once he tries the activity. We give notice before a transition. We use a timer. We follow a routine each day. We sing the same goodbye song each day and he stresses out if his parent comes before his name is sung. They will wait until we sing his name and then it is a bit easier for him to leave. He prefers adults to kids. (He was home through much of the pandemic.) He's bright and a big shy. He loves music and is very sensory- loves shaving cream, finger painting, etc.
Mom and I plan to meet next week. Any suggestions about how to help this sweet boy with transitions are appreciated. The problem is increasing, not decreasing with more time in school.
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Elizabeth Glidden
Early Learning Center Co-Director
Hillel Academy of Tampa
Tampa FL
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