Transitions and Change

Core Idea

Transitions are when one thing ends and another begins — like going from playtime to lunchtime, or from home to school. Change can feel hard because your brain likes knowing what comes next. Using routines, warnings ('Five more minutes!'), and calm breathing can help transitions feel easier.

How It's Best Learned

Use a visual schedule so children can see what comes next. Give warnings before transitions: 'In five minutes, we will clean up.' Practice transition routines with songs or signals. Talk about how it feels when things change and what helps — 'What makes it easier when we have to stop playing?'

Common Misconceptions

• Thinking that not liking change means something is wrong with you; most people find transitions hard sometimes.
• Believing that change is always bad; some changes bring exciting new things.
• Assuming you should be able to switch from one activity to another instantly without any feelings about it; it is normal to need a moment to adjust.

Explainer

Transitions are when one thing ends and another begins. Going from playtime to lunchtime is a transition. Going from home to school is a transition. Finishing one activity and starting a new one is a transition. Transitions happen all day long, and your brain has to adjust to new situations over and over again.

Here is something important: change can feel hard because your brain likes knowing what comes next. Your brain feels safe when it knows the plan. When things change suddenly, your brain gets confused for a moment and has to figure out the new plan. This is normal for everyone — kids and grown-ups alike. Most people find transitions hard sometimes. There is nothing wrong with you if you do.

Another wonderful truth: change is not always bad. Some changes are exciting and bring wonderful new things! Maybe you are getting a new toy, or making a new friend, or learning something amazing. Maybe you are going on an adventure. These changes are exciting even though they are still different from what you expected.

Here are things that help make transitions easier:

• **Knowing what comes next** — visual schedules help your brain feel ready
• **Warnings** — "In five more minutes, we will clean up" gives you time to prepare
• **Routines** — doing the same thing the same way helps your brain know what to expect
• **Deep breathing** — calm your body while your brain adjusts
• **Songs or signals** — special sounds or movements make transitions feel fun

It is normal to need a moment to adjust when things change. You do not have to switch instantly from one feeling or activity to another. Your brain is working hard! Give yourself permission to take a breath and get ready for what is coming next.