Transitions

A transition is any change from one thing to another: leaving the house, turning off a screen, ending playtime, going from the car into a store. Most children find some transitions hard, and many autistic children find them harder. Some common reasons:

• Stopping something good is a loss. Leaving a favorite activity can feel like having it taken away.
• The next thing may be unknown. Not knowing what comes next, or when, is stressful.
• Shifting focus takes effort. Moving attention from one thing to another can take more time and energy for some children.
• Sensory changes pile up. A new place can mean new sounds, lights, smells and people all at once.

These are general ideas that many families and professionals use. Not every idea suits every child, and your child's team can help you choose what fits.

• A warning before the change. "Five more minutes, then shoes on." A visual timer can make the time easier to see.
• Showing what comes next. A picture schedule, or a simple "first, then" ("First shoes, then car"), makes the next step predictable.
• Steady routines where you can, so fewer changes come as a surprise.
• Bringing something familiar along, such as a favorite object, song or snack.
• Extra time. A few spare minutes takes pressure off everyone.

If transitions are a regular struggle, log a few in the ABC tracker and bring them to your child's team.