Transitions: Helping Children Through Life’s Little Changes

Transitions are the moments of change that happen as we shift from one activity, setting, or routine to another—like moving from playtime to cleanup or from school to home. For children who are still learning how to manage those feelings, these moments can feel overwhelming, often leading to meltdowns, resistance, or withdrawal.

These shifts, big or small, are part of everyday life. For children, transitions are especially important because they help build flexibility, resilience, and self-regulation skills that they’ll carry into adulthood. When children struggle with transitions, it’s not just about resisting directions—it’s often a sign that they’re still learning how to manage emotions, adjust expectations, and feel secure in times of change.

Why Transitions Are Hard for Children

Children thrive on predictability and comfort. When a transition interrupts an activity they enjoy, requires them to start something unfamiliar, or moves them to a different setting, they may feel:

• Loss of control – leaving behind something they value.

• Uncertainty – not knowing what comes next.

• Sensory overload – moving from one environment to another (e.g., a quiet room to a noisy space).

• Emotional intensity – frustration, disappointment, or anxiety around change.

Examples of Challenging Transitions

• Morning routine: Getting dressed and ready for school after waking up.

• Setting changes: Moving from a comfortable/preferred environment to a non-preferred.

• Play time to cleanup: Stopping an enjoyable activity to do something less preferred.

• Bedtime: Transitioning from active play to calm sleep preparation.

• Community outings: Leaving a fun place (like the playground or a store) when it’s time to go.

Strategies to Support Smooth Transitions

Helping children regulate their emotions and actions during transitions takes patience, consistency, and creativity. Here are some practical strategies:

1. Visual Schedules

Use picture schedules, calendars, or checklists so children can see what’s coming next. This reduces surprises and gives a sense of predictability.

2. Timers and Warnings

Provide countdowns ( “5 more minutes until cleanup”) using timers, songs, or hand signals. This helps children prepare emotionally and mentally for the change.

3. Transitional Objects

Offer a comfort item (like a small toy, stuffed animal, or fidget) to carry during the shift from one place to another.

4. Routine and Consistency

Keep transitions predictable by using the same cues (songs, phrases, or rituals). Consistency builds security.

5. Role-Play and Practice

Practice transitions during calm moments through play (e.g., pretending to clean up toys or walk to the car). Rehearsal builds confidence.

6. Calming Cool Tools

Incorporate deep breathing, stretching, or movement breaks to help children regulate their bodies before or after a transition.

7. Choice and Control

Give small choices (e.g., “Do you want to hop or tiptoe to the bathroom?”). This restores a sense of control.

8. Positive Reinforcement

Acknowledge effort: “I love how you moved from playtime to cleanup with a calm body. That shows great self-control!”

A Moment of Devotion

“For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you.’” – Isaiah 41:13

Transitions are part of daily life—not just for children, but for all of us. God knows that change can feel hard, but He reminds us that we never walk into new seasons alone.

Just as the world shifts from summer to fall—warm days giving way to crisp air and colorful leaves—our lives move through seasons of change. These shifts can feel uncertain, but they also bring beauty, growth, and new beginnings. In the same way, God invites us to trust Him in every transition, knowing He holds us steady through each season.

When we model calmness and trust in God during life’s transitions, we teach our children to anchor themselves in His steady presence.

“Dear Lord,

Thank You for walking with us through every change, big or small. Help me guide my child with patience and love during transitions. Remind us that even when routines shift, Your presence never does. May my child learn to find peace and courage in You.

Amen.”