Practical educator topic

Transitions

Transitions can be some of the hardest moments in an early childhood day, particularly when children are being asked to stop something they are enjoying, process several verbal instructions and move into something new. Small changes to movement, rhythm, predictability and the environment can often make these moments easier without educators needing to repeat the same direction again and again.

Something to think about

What happens during the transitions that are hardest in your room?

Think about one transition that regularly becomes difficult. Is there a lot of waiting? Are several instructions being given at once? Do children need more movement before they are expected to sit? Would a familiar song, visual cue, carrying task, movement pathway or predictable ritual help them understand what comes next?

Practical resource

Transition Movements for Kindergarten or School

A practical resource with simple movement ideas that can be repeated across familiar daily routines rather than needing a completely new activity every day.

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Ready to share with families

Children often find transitions easier when movement becomes part of the routine. At home, you could try walking along a masking tape line, moving like an animal to the bathroom, jumping over a few tape markers, carrying something slightly heavy to the next room or using the same short movement game before leaving the house. The activity does not need to change every day. Repeating a familiar movement gives children time to practise, become confident and begin to anticipate what comes next.

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Coaching for early childhood teams

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