Many challenging behaviors happen during transitions. Children may cry, refuse, run away, or become upset when they have to leave something they enjoy. Making transitions predictable and giving children support can help them move from one activity to the next more successfully.
Make Transitions Easier
Give children a warning.
Let children know what is coming before the transition happens.
“Two more minutes to play, then it will be time to clean up.”
Use the same cues.
A familiar song, phrase, timer, or visual signal can help children recognize that a transition is coming.
Tell children what to do next.
Instead of saying, “Stop playing,” try, “Put your blocks in the basket, then meet me on the rug.”
Give children a job.
Children can carry a book, hold the door, collect materials, check the schedule, or help turn off the lights.
Offer limited choices.
“Do you want to walk to the rug or hop to the rug?”
Keep the pace moving.
Long periods of waiting can create opportunities for frustration and challenging behavior.
Expect some children to need more support.
A child who struggles with transitions may need an adult nearby, a visual reminder, or an extra warning.
Try This
Pick one transition that regularly feels difficult in your classroom. Create a simple routine for it:
Warning → Clear direction → Child's job → Next activity
Use the same routine consistently for several days and observe whether the transition becomes easier.
Remember that a successful transition does not always mean every child moves immediately and quietly. Success can mean children are learning how to move from one activity to another with increasing independence.