Transitions are a natural part of early childhood, but that doesn’t mean they’re always easy.
Whether a child is starting childcare for the first time, moving into a new room, or preparing for the transition to kindergarten or school, change can feel big. New environments, new expectations and new relationships can all impact how secure a child feels.
Many families tell us that transitions feel harder than they expected, even when everything is going “well”. That’s completely normal. With the right support, these moments of change can become positive, confidence-building experiences.
Why transitions can feel challenging for young children
Young children rely on familiarity to feel safe. When routines or environments change, it’s common for children to express uncertainty through emotions or behaviour, not because something is wrong, but because they’re adjusting.
Research consistently shows that emotional regulation plays a key role in how children cope with transitions and adapt to new learning environments. Children who feel emotionally supported during times of change are more likely to engage positively with peers, educators and learning experiences.
At the heart of this support is emotional safety, and routines are one of the most effective ways to provide it.
The role of routines in supporting transitions
Routines give children a sense of predictability during uncertain moments. Knowing what comes next helps reduce anxiety and supports self-regulation.
Consistent routines:
- Create a sense of safety and belonging
- Help children manage big emotions
- Support independence and confidence
- Allow children to focus on learning rather than uncertainty
The Early Years Learning Framework recognises that predictable routines and responsive relationships support children’s wellbeing and sense of identity, particularly during periods of change.
At Affinity Education, predictable routines and responsive relationships are intentionally embedded within our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, supporting children’s wellbeing and sense of belonging, particularly during periods of change.
How educators support smooth transitions
In early learning settings, transitions are most successful when they are intentional and child-centred.
Educators support children through transitions by:
- Building strong, trusting relationships before and during change
- Gradually introducing new rooms, routines or educators
- Maintaining familiar rhythms throughout the day
- Working closely with families to understand each child’s needs, routines and cues
For children preparing for primary school, these transition supports are part of a broader focus on confidence, independence, and emotional readiness.
When children feel known, supported and understood, transitions become less about what they’re leaving behind and more about what they’re growing into.
How families can support transitions at home
Families play a vital role in helping children navigate change with confidence.
Practical ways families can support transitions include:
- Talking calmly and positively about upcoming changes
- Keeping key routines consistent at home
- Using clear, confident goodbyes (even when it’s hard)
- Acknowledging children’s feelings without trying to rush or fix them
Predictable routines and emotionally responsive caregiving help children feel safe as they adjust and help them build the skills they need to manage change over time.
Transitions take time, and that’s okay
There’s no “right” way for a child to transition. Some children settle quickly; others need more time. Both are completely normal.
What matters most is that children feel:
- Safe
- Supported
- Understood
- Confident that they belong
When transitions are supported with consistency, care and collaboration between families and educators, children don’t just adjust; they build confidence, resilience and trust that carry into everything that comes next.