Transitions are often a trigger for kids, ending one activity and starting another one can be challenging especially when the next activity is not preferred. I have compiled a few tips here that might make them go a little easier for you.
Use Visuals
I use visuals such as first / then all the time so mostly for motivation. You do what I want you to get what you want. Visual schedules are also useful because kids interpret pictures faster and more effectively than our words. Especially when children are upset, they do not hear our words, but studies show they interpret the pictures faster.
Give lots of notice
I like to give the 10 minute, 5-minute, 2-minute and 1-minute warnings for ending an activity. This works for some kids but it stresses out others, so know your child. It gives your child time to wind up what they are doing so they are not taken by surprise when it is time to move on.
Use a timer
Using a timer keeps you true to your word and allows the timer to be the bad guy instead of yourself. If you use the timer often enough a child will eventually get to know how long five minutes is.
Give them time to adjust
Even after all the warnings and the timer goes off let your child finish printing the sentence, coloring the picture, put the last beads on. You would not appreciate being interrupted and being forced to clean up in mid-sentence or in the middle of a thought. Give them the courtesy of finishing up within reason of course.
Prepare your Child for the Day
During Breakfast talk about what their day is supposed to look like and talk about what kinds of things could change and what to expect in those instances. Let them know who is coming to pick them up, if they have a sub at school and what to do if you’re running late to pick them up.