Transitions

Children should be allowed time to pursue their interests without interruption as much as possible, moving from one activity to another, individually. At other times, the group as a whole needs to move on to a new phase of the day. These changes in activity are called transitions.

Some times a transition is lengthy and you cannot simply move from point A to point B easily. If Charlie spilled his milk and had to have help cleaning up, he may not have finished snack when everyone else did. If the first table of kids finished their project and the second didn't, your transition will be dragged out.

• Encourage children who are finished with their activity to help straighten the room or help set up the next activity. This gives children something positive to do during the transition and encourages responsibility. 
• The best way to get stragglers moving is to start the next activity, so move forward if you need to. Just make sure that everyone is supervised and the staff to child ratio is maintained.
• Keep the length of time children have to wait or stand in line as short as possible. Avoid overcrowding in one small place (bathrooms and cubby areas can become congested). 
• Dismiss children who get themselves ready quickly rather than making them wait.
• Give a ten minute advance notice to tell the group when the activity will end and what comes next. Follow up  with a five minute warning and again when one minute is remaining. 
• Be positive. “We have time for one more dance before recess. Ready? Go!”

Need a simple transition signal?

• A necklace hanging on the wall, indicating there is room for another child in the art room, block corner, or bathroom
• A special sign you hang on the wall, indicating the outside play area is now open
• A song, chant, or a guitar softly strumming
• The lead caregiver sitting down in the group area, indicating group time is about to begin
• A small bell ringing 
• The caregiver’s hand raised with two fingers extended
• Flash the lights off and on

Related training:
Child Oriented Spaces  (1 hour / .1 CEU)
Learning Through Play (1 hour / .1 CEU)
Planning Activities Based on Children’s Needs