Why Transitions Are Hard for Some Children and How to Support Them

Understanding Why Transitions Feel Overwhelming

Transitions require children to stop what they are doing, process new information and adjust to a different activity or environment. This involves multiple skills including emotional regulation, flexibility, attention and communication. For some children, this combination can feel overwhelming.

Children who experience difficulty with transitions are not being oppositional. Their reactions often reflect a genuine struggle to manage change rather than a refusal to cooperate.

Sensory Factors That Affect Transitions

Sensory sensitivities play a significant role in transition difficulties. A child may struggle to move from a quiet activity to a noisy environment or from movement to sitting still. Changes in lighting, sound, temperature or physical demands can make transitions challenging.

When sensory input shifts suddenly, a child’s nervous system may respond with distress, avoidance or behavioural outbursts. Supporting sensory regulation before and during transitions can make a meaningful difference.

Communication Challenges and Transitions

Children with communication difficulties may not fully understand what is happening during a transition. If expectations are unclear or instructions are complex, children may feel confused or anxious.

Providing clear, simple explanations and visual supports helps children understand what is happening and what is expected next. When communication is supported, transitions often become smoother.

Emotional Regulation and Change

Transitions often trigger emotional responses. Children who struggle with emotional regulation may find it difficult to cope with the feelings that come with stopping a preferred activity or starting something new.

These children may need additional support to calm their bodies and emotions during change. Teaching coping strategies and providing reassurance helps children gradually build regulation skills.

Supporting Children Before Transitions

Proactive strategies are key to supporting transitions. Helpful approaches include:

• providing advance notice

• using consistent language

• preparing children visually

• reducing demands during transitions

• offering choices when possible
  

Preparation helps children feel more in control and less anxious.

Supporting Children During Transitions

During transitions, calm and predictable adult responses are important. Strategies include:

• staying calm and patient

• acknowledging feelings

• offering reassurance

• guiding rather than rushing
  

When adults remain regulated, children are better able to regulate themselves.

Building Transition Skills Over Time

Transition skills develop gradually. Parents can support progress by:

• practising transitions during calm moments

• reinforcing successful transitions

• celebrating effort

• introducing small changes slowly
  

Progress may be uneven, but consistent support leads to improvement over time.

How Bloom Child Therapy Supports Transition Difficulties

Bloom Child Therapy supports children who experience transition challenges by identifying underlying environmental, communication or emotional regulation needs. Therapists work with families to develop personalised strategies that fit naturally into daily routines. Support focuses on building flexibility, confidence and emotional regulation. We provide a practical and compassionate approach that helps reduce stress and support smoother transitions.