Children with ADHD
Children with ADHD often struggle to shift attention away from activities they find rewarding. When asked to stop something engaging — like play or a preferred center — they may become upset or resistant. Emotional regulation is also more challenging, which can result in larger reactions during transitions.
Children with Autism
For children on the autism spectrum, routine and predictability help make the world feel manageable. Transitions disrupt that sense of order, and even small changes can feel overwhelming. Unexpected transitions, in particular, may lead to intense distress or meltdowns.
Children with Sensory Processing Challenges
Children who are easily overstimulated may find transitions difficult because the world already feels overwhelming. Changes in environment, noise level, or expectations can quickly overload their system, leading to resistance or emotional outbursts.
Children with Anxiety or OCD
For anxious children, transitions may trigger fear — fear of what comes next, fear of separation, or fear of failure. Children with OCD may become distressed if a transition interrupts a task they feel must be completed “just right,” such as lining up materials or finishing work perfectly.
Key Takeaway for Educators
Transitions are not just logistical moments — they are emotional and neurological challenges for many children. Understanding why a child struggles with transitions helps educators respond with empathy, structure, and support rather than punishment.
When adults anticipate transition challenges and respond consistently, children are more likely to develop the skills they need to move between activities calmly and successfully.