Tricks for Transitions: Helping Kids Move From One Task to the Next

It can be rough if you're trying to take care of your child's basic needs and they're fighting you every step of the way because they don't want to stop playing to brush their teeth. Transitions can be tough for kids, especially if they're moving from something fun to something less exciting. Their brains process change differently than ours, and what seems like no big deal to us can feel huge to them. Luckily, with a little playfulness and creativity, you can make these moments smoother and even more enjoyable.

Giving your child warnings before transitions, using timers, and offering choices can make a huge difference. Here are some additional tricks I've found help kids move from one thing to another.

Dry Erase Board Plan

Kids have very little control over their day which can contribute to meltdowns during transitions. Giving them a heads-up about what's coming next is especially important for children who get thrown off when asked to switch activities.

During my sessions, I often let the child choose a few activities and then I draw pictures of those activities on a dry erase board. For kids who tend to get stuck, I'll have them erase each picture after we finish. This gives them a sense of control and helps them feel excited about moving on. Even if you don't write things down, a simple verbal heads-up about what's next can do wonders.

Movement Challenges

Turning the path from one activity to another into a game can make it far more appealing for your child while also providing regulating sensory input to help them stay calm.

Time to take a shower? Crawl like a bear and see who can roar the loudest on the way to the bathroom. Time for dinner? Pretending your child is a hungry bunny might encourage them to hop to the table. Other ideas: slithering like a snake, crab walking, wheelbarrow walking, stomping like a dinosaur, or tip-toeing as sneakily as possible.

This is also a great way to offer choices during the transition to give your child a greater sense of control: "Do you want to crawl like a puppy or roll like a log to your room?"

Transition Song

Music can be a powerful tool for keeping young brains regulated during transitions. Sometimes I will put on a song instead of a timer to signal that an activity is wrapping up. Other times, I will put on a song to make moving from one place to another more fun. For example, the walk from the playground to the car turns into a mini dance party!

Songs can also help them tolerate non-preferred tasks, such as clipping nails or trying to use the toilet. In these cases, I'll play a favorite tune to help the child understand that the non-preferred task will be over once the song ends.

Use a Silly Voice

Kids hear instructions from adults all day long, so giving directions in a silly voice can capture their attention in a fresh way. It can also make your request easier for their brain to process.

Make up songs for specific routines (like washing hands, brushing teeth, or getting in the car) or talk like a robot when asking them to clean up.

Dramatic Countdown

After giving warnings that it's almost time to stop, use a playful countdown to make the final moment more fun. Pretend your child is a rocket about to take off to the car: "Rocket ship Charlie is about to take off! Let's see how fast he'll make it to the car in 10, 9, 8...." Or invite them to step on stage (a.k.a. the step stool by the sink where she needs to wash her hands) to receive a special award. "Ella, please step up on this stage to receive a very special high five for being so awesome in 5, 4, 3...."

Transition Buddy

A stuffed animal can work like magic as a transition helper. Maybe it's bedtime for the stuffed animal and they need your child's help to be brave while going to sleep in their own bed. Or maybe the stuffy wants to be a "wardrobe assistant" and help your child get dressed.

It can be much more exciting to follow the instructions of a stuffed animal than listen to a parent. After all, who wants to let down their favorite teddy bear?

Transitions are a skill, and like any skill, they can be learned and practiced over time. If your child continues to have a hard time, even with lots of warnings and playful support, it could be a sign that their nervous system needs extra support. As a pediatric occupational therapist, I work with families to make daily routines easier, calmer, and more joyful for everyone involved.

If you'd like personalized strategies for your family, I'd love to connect. You can learn more about my services or book a virtual consultation here.