Keeping Transitions Smooth and Simple Bridgette Long Natalie Rapp SWRK Infant Toddler Specialist NWRK Infant Toddler Specialist August 9, 2012
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 center
ParentWhat 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