What Are Transitions?

A transition occurs whenever a child moves from one activity, environment, or routine to another. During the school year, children have structure, routines, and expectations that they understand. They know where they need to be, who they will see each day, and what their schedule looks like.

Then summer arrives.

Suddenly, their school friends are no longer around every day. The teacher they spent six hours a day with is no longer their teacher. The routines that provided comfort and predictability disappear overnight.

This can be difficult for many children.

While summer often seems exciting to adults, it can feel overwhelming for children who thrive on consistency and predictability. They may not fully understand why they are feeling upset, anxious, or frustrated.

Children do not always have the language to explain what they are experiencing. Instead, they often communicate stress through changes in behavior.

As parents, it is important to be patient and recognize when your child may be reaching their limit. Sometimes that last-minute stop at Target after a busy day is simply too much. If you notice a negative reaction starting to brew, it may be a sign that your child needs a break, a quiet space, or the comfort of home.

We've all seen the child having a meltdown in the middle of a store. As parents, we often feel pressure to finish our shopping, complete one more errand, or push through the moment. But sometimes the best thing we can do is recognize that our child has reached their limit. While it is easier said than done, leaving the store and heading home may prevent a small moment of frustration from becoming a much bigger struggle. Remember, your child's behavior may be communicating exhaustion, sensory overload, anxiety, or difficulty managing a transition.

Some common reactions to summer transitions include:

• Increased frustration

• Difficulty following directions

• Mood swings

• Anxiety or worry

• Resistance to change

How Transitions Affect Children

Every child responds differently to change. Some children may appear excited while also feeling nervous or uncertain. Others may become more emotional, withdrawn, or display challenging behaviors because they are struggling to adapt.

As parents and caregivers, it is important to remember that behavior is often a form of communication. Looking beyond the behavior can help us better understand what a child may be experiencing emotionally. When children feel understood and supported, they are more likely to develop healthy coping skills and emotional resilience.

Why Transitions Can Be More Difficult for Children with Disabilities

For children with disabilities, transitions can present additional challenges. Many rely heavily on predictable routines, familiar environments, and support systems that are built into their school day.

When school is no longer in session, children may temporarily lose access to the structure and services that help them feel successful throughout the year.

Changes in routine can impact:

• Communication skills

• Emotional regulation

• Sensory processing

• Social interactions

• Independence

  
  

Children with disabilities may experience:

• Difficulty understanding changes in routine

• Increased anxiety about new situations

• Sensory sensitivities

• Difficulty transitioning between activities

• Challenges communicating their needs

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Instead of asking, "Why is my child behaving this way?" 

Consider asking. "What is my child trying to communicate?"

This simple shift in perspective can help families respond with empathy and support rather than frustration.

Validate Children's Feelings

Children need to know that their emotions are understood and accepted.

Validating feelings does not mean fixing every problem—it means acknowledging what a child is experiencing.

Try saying:

• "I understand you miss your teacher."

• "It's okay to feel nervous about something new."

• "I can see that you're feeling frustrated."

  
  

When children feel heard, they develop trust, emotional awareness, and healthy coping skills.

Thank you for reading. We are here to empower you!

Advocates for the Whole Child