For little humans, small changes can feel big. When it comes to transitioning rooms in childcare, your child may be excited to be more like the bigger children, but the change may also present some challenges.
Transitioning rooms at House on the Hill means changes to routines and new educators, but also new opportunities to play and grow! Just like your child’s first day at House on the Hill, we are here to support you.
When is your child ready to transition rooms?
The transition from one room to another is a significant milestone in your child’s educational journey. It marks a progression from one set of learning experiences to another, requiring a level of readiness and adaptability. To ensure a smooth transition, your child’s teacher will work with you to assess your child’s preparedness and provide necessary support. Room transitions at House on the Hill usually happen for any child ready to progress at the end of each term.
How does HotH support your child during transitions?
When a child is ready to move up to the next level, our teachers will help to ease them into the transition. Their current teacher will bring them to their new class and introduce them to their new teacher as part of their hand over. The teachers will also have discussed and shared notes about your child.
Your teacher will meet you to explain what is coming up, share their new routine and what expectations they have for your child. You will be invited to observe the new classroom and meet your child’s new teachers before the move.
So, how can you prepare your child at home for their upcoming transition?
Before the transition:
· Talk to your child about the upcoming transition. Explain the new room, the new educators, and the new routine. Be positive and enthusiastic and help your child to see the transition as an exciting new adventure.
· Stay positive. Don’t brush away these big feelings and acknowledge their fear and nervousness.
· Assure them that it is normal for them to feel worried about new friends and teachers.
· Set up playdates and get to know other children’s families through your school’s Parent Support Group (PSG). Your child’s new teacher will also be able to help to connect you.
During the transition:
· Be patient and understanding. It may take some time for your child to adjust to the new room. Be prepared for them to be upset or clingy at first.
· Say goodbye to your child calmly and reassuringly. Let them know that you will be back to pick them up later.
· Work with your child’s teacher to manage the transition.
· Check-in with your child regularly to see how they are doing. Ask them about their day and let them know that you are there for them.
Additional tips
Here are some additional tips that you can do to help your child with the transition:
· Be consistent with routines at home and childcare. This will help your child to feel more secure.
· Use positive reinforcement. Praise your child for their efforts to adjust to the new room.
· Read books to your child about transitions. This can help them to understand what to expect.
Here are some suggested book titles:
Worrysaurus by Rachel Bright
The Little Butterfly That Could by Ross Burach
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
· Talk to your child about their feelings. Help them to identify and express their emotions in a healthy way.
It’s important to remember that every child is different and will transition at their own pace. Be patient and supportive, and your child will happily adjust to the new room.
