Keeping Transitions

Smooth and Simple

Bridgette Long Natalie RappSWRK Infant Toddler Specialist NWRK Infant Toddler Specialist

August 9, 2012

How do we define transition?

The Oxford Dictionary defines Transition as:

the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to

another

Lets think about all the transitions we

encounter in a child care setting…

What types of transitions do we see in a child care setting?

• Enrollment into the center- parent- child

• Room to Room- parent - child

• Activity to Activity• Daily arrival

- parent- child

• Departure- parent- child

Enrollment into a center

Enrollment into a centerParent

What can we do? Tour of the facility Meet the staff Create an open door

policy Have multiple

resources available for access

Hand out parent information packets

ChildWhat can we do? Allow for short

beginning visits with mom or dad

Incorporate family picture into the classroom

Allow a ‘lovey’ or piece of home to come with the child.

Daily arrival at the center

What are some things may happen

upon arrival ?Positive

+Negative

-

Responsive GreetingVideo Clip

Some things we can do to ease arrival

• Greet both parent and child by name, smile, and tell them how happy you are to see them

• Be respectful of parent/child rituals, step in only when appropriate

• Ask questions about their morning• Allow child to say ‘good-bye’ NO

sneaking away!• Reassure both parent and child

Activity to Activity

ActivityHow do we transition

from activity to activity?

Ideas for smooth Transitions• Bell• Timer• Song(s)• Lights off/on• Picture

cues/schedule

• Deep breaths• Stretch• Signing • Music • Leave/reenter

the room

Daily Departure From the Center

Things we can do at departure

Parent- Create a positive

situation- Make the parent

feel loved, needed, and wanted.

Child- Remind them of

something great they did

- Let them know when you’ll see them next, maybe add what you may be doing that day.

Room To Room

Small Group Discussion• Discuss current room

transitioning policies at your center

• What works well?• What may need to be changed?

Things to Consider• Child may be leaving friends• Attachment to current caregiver• New rules, routines, and expectations• Fewer/shorter naps• Less individualized care

What we can do for parents• Meet the teacher• Tour the classroom• Discuss changes in expectations• Provide general schedule• Discuss changes in routines• What can be expected in this room• Provide an informational packet

ConclusionThere are multiple types of transitions

involving numerous individuals on an ongoing basis.

Transitions are very important and often overlooked

Transitions are a daily part of child care