Showcase Magazine Spring 2026 - Flipbook - Page 17
EARLY YEARS
Supporting Children
Through Transitions
Any change or transition can significantly affect a child’s wellbeing, learning, and
development. Changes such as moving house, starting school, the birth of a sibling,
illness, or family disruption may temporarily impact a child’s attention, behaviour, and
confidence. Children may feel confused, stressed, or less self-assured as they adjust
to new routines and experiences.
These transitions can also affect children physically, disrupting sleep, appetite, and
focus, which in turn can make it harder for them to engage in learning and everyday
activities. Families experiencing stress may find it more challenging to provide
consistent routines and emotional support, which can further influence a child’s
adjustment and overall wellbeing.
Types of Transitions
Transitions that children experience can be either
planned or unplanned. Planned transitions, such as
moving house or starting may temporarily affect a child.
However, unplanned transitions, such as family
breakdown or the death of a parent, can have a deeper
impact on a child.
Birth of a sibling
Moving house
Death of a family member
Moving from nursery to school
Moving rooms in nursery
Family breakdown
Illness/ hospitalisation
Entering foster care or adoption
Routine shifts
How You Can Help
Emotional support: Children experiencing change
may require more emotional support and
reassurance from caregivers.
Create a safe and trusted environment: Ensure
the enrvironment helps the child to feel safe and
secure through predictable routines and stability.
Parent partnerships: Communicate with parents
to understand the child’s behaviour and ensure
continuity of care.
Use resources and activities: Read books or
organise activities to help children understand
what to expect. Talk about the change positively.
Promote communication: Provide children with
opportunities to express their thoughts and feelings.
Work with other professionals if necessary: Some
children may benefit from a multi-agency
approach to support them with the change.
Be vigilant: Ensure that you are vigilant and
observant to emotional cues and behavioural
changes.
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Showcase Training 17
