Are transitions difficult for your child? Check out these tips!

 My Child Struggles with Transitions  ~ What Can I do?

"Why are transitions so hard for my child — and how can I help them without meltdowns?"

Whether it's leaving the house, changing activities, or starting a new school or camp routine, transitions can feel like chaos for a child with autism. And for you as a parent, it can feel frustrating, unpredictable, and even isolating.

The truth is, transitions require:

• Processing time

• Emotional regulation

• Predictability

…all of which can be overwhelming when your child’s sensory or cognitive systems are already working overtime.

Here at Camp Sensory House, we build in extra transition support as part of our daily rhythm — because we know how powerful small adjustments can be.

✅ Try These Transition Tools at Home:

1. Use visual schedules or timers
   Show your child what's coming next in pictures or symbols, and give countdowns ("5 more minutes…").

2. Create a “transition object”
   Let them carry a small toy, fidget, or sensory item from one activity to another.

3. Practice transitions during calm moments
   Role-play leaving the park or starting bedtime while you're not in a rush. Familiarity reduces stress.

4. Offer choices when possible
   Instead of “Time to clean up,” try “Do you want to clean up toys or books first?”

5. Validate and narrate
   “I know it’s hard to stop playing. It’s okay to feel frustrated. Let’s take 3 deep breaths together.”

💛 You’re Not Alone

If your child struggles with transitions, you’re doing nothing wrong. It’s okay to build your routine around what works best for them — even if it looks different from other families.

We see the beauty in neurodivergent rhythms at Camp Sensory House — and we design every day around structure that supports regulation, not control.

💬 What transition has been most challenging for your child? What’s one small change that has helped?
We’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas in the comments or messages.

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