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505 E. Buck Rd
Wilmington, DE, 19807
United States

(302) 472-0021

Christ Church Episcopal Preschool educates young children, creates community among school, families, and church, and honors and nurtures children in the Episcopal tradition. We welcome children aged two to five in small classes where all are affirmed as children of God and are inspired and encouraged to become their best selves—socially, emotionally, academically and spiritually. 

CCEP Blog

Primary Focus

Jennifer Fordham

"Smooth Sailing: Navigating Transitions with Your Child"

Transitions throughout the day can be challenging for children, especially those who thrive on routine and predictability. Whether it's moving from playtime to mealtime or getting ready for bed, helping your child transition smoothly can make a big difference in their day-to-day experience. Here are some tips to make transitions easier for both you and your child:

  1. Creating Routines: Establishing consistent routines can provide a sense of stability and security for children. Try to keep daily activities like waking up, mealtimes, playtime, and bedtime consistent. When children know what to expect, transitions become more manageable.

    Previewing Countdown: Before transitioning to a new activity, give your child a heads-up. Let them know in advance that a change is coming. For example, you could say, "In five minutes, it will be time to clean up and get ready for dinner." This gives them time to mentally prepare for the transition.

    Engage in the Process with Them: Instead of simply telling your child what to do during transitions, involve them in the process. For example, if it's time to clean up toys, make it a game by racing to see who can pick up the most toys the fastest. By making transitions fun and interactive, you can help your child feel more motivated and empowered.

    Use Visual Clues or Songs: Visual cues and songs can be powerful tools to signal transitions. You can create a visual schedule using pictures or drawings to help your child understand the sequence of activities throughout the day. Additionally, incorporating songs or rhymes for specific transitions, like a cleanup song or a bedtime lullaby, can provide a clear signal that it's time to transition to the next activity.

By implementing these strategies, you can help your child navigate transitions more smoothly and reduce stress and frustration for both of you. Remember, every child is unique, so feel free to experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your family. With patience, consistency, and a little creativity, you can turn transitions into opportunities for growth and bonding with your child.