Transitions: From One Child Care Setting to Another
Transitioning from one child care environment to another can be a difficult process. The video above will assist you in making sure this transition is as painless as possible. Below is a summary of the main points from the video…
For whatever reason, you’ve decided that it is time for your child to move from one setting to another. How can you make this a smooth transition?
There are a few steps you can take to ensure that this transition has minimal bumps.
Step 1: Be prepared
The number one thing that I tell families they need to do is to know what that new environment is like. Get familiar with the schedule. Notice the centres that are available. Be able to describe the centre to your child. Be prepared with information about what activities the centre does and their routines.
Step 2: To prepare your child
Let your child know that they are moving from their current child care setting to another child care setting. Talk to your child in a fun manner about why they are moving. Find the positives of the move and stick to them.
When talking about why they are moving child care settings you can say things like the following:
- it’s going to be a bigger place
- it’s a going to be a smaller place
- it’s closer to your school
- it’s helping you get ready for kindergarten
Step 3: Use visuals
Children thrive on visuals like pictures, calendars (countdown), or show them the building.
Step 4: Develop a transition plan
Most child care centres have a transition plan that they like to use. Find out what the centre’s plan is. You may have to advocate for more or less time depending on your families need.
Step 5: Transitional object
Let them bring something with them that will help your child feel better in their new environment. Having a picture of the family in their backpack may help.