If your child has a hard time moving from one activity to another, you’re not alone.
Many parents describe transitions as the most stressful part of the day — leaving the house, turning off screens, starting bedtime, or switching activities can lead to tears, resistance, or meltdowns.
At Dream Pediatric, we work with many Edmonton families whose children struggle with transitions. These challenges are common and are often linked to regulation, sensory needs, or difficulty processing change — not bad behavior.
This post will help you understand why transitions are hard and share practical occupational therapy strategies you can use at home to make them smoother and less stressful.
Why Transitions Are Hard for Some Children
Transitions require a child to:
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Stop something they enjoy
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Shift attention
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Regulate emotions
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Adjust to new expectations
For some children, this is neurologically demanding — especially if they have sensory sensitivities, difficulty with flexibility, or challenges with emotional regulation.
When a child struggles with transitions, it’s usually because their nervous system needs more support, not more discipline.
Common Signs a Child Struggles With Transitions
You may notice:
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Strong reactions when activities end
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Meltdowns during routine changes
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Difficulty moving between tasks
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Avoidance or refusal
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Increased anxiety during transitions
Understanding these signs helps parents respond with empathy and strategy rather than frustration
How Occupational Therapy Helps With Transitions
Occupational therapy focuses on helping children feel regulated, prepared, and supported during change.
OT strategies help by:
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Supporting emotional regulation
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Reducing sensory overload
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Increasing predictability
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Building flexibility over time
At Dream Pediatric, we tailor strategies to each child’s needs and daily routines.
Practical Occupational Therapy Strategies to Support Transitions
These are simple strategies we often recommend to families in our Edmonton clinic.
Give Advance Warnings
Surprises can overwhelm the nervous system.
Try:
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“Five more minutes”
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“Two more turns”
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Visual or verbal countdowns
This helps children mentally prepare for change.
Use Visual Supports
Visual cues reduce the need for verbal processing.
Examples include:
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Picture schedules
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Simple routine charts
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Timers
Visuals make transitions clearer and more predictable.
Keep Transitions Consistent
Consistency builds safety.
Whenever possible:
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Transition the same way each day
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Use the same words or phrases
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Keep routines predictable
Predictability reduces anxiety.
Add Movement Before or After Transitions
Movement helps regulate the body.
Helpful options:
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Jumping
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Stretching
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Pushing or pulling activities
Movement can make transitions smoother.
Acknowledge Feelings Without Giving In
You can validate emotions without changing the expectation.
For example:
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“I know it’s hard to stop playing.”
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“You’re upset, and it’s time to go.”
Feeling understood helps children move forward.
Offer Small Choices
Choices give children a sense of control.
For example:
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“Do you want to walk or hop to the bathroom?”
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“Red shoes or blue shoes?”
Control within limits reduces resistance.
What to Avoid During Transitions
To reduce stress, try to avoid:
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Rushing without warning
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Arguing during meltdowns
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Changing expectations mid-transition
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Assuming behavior is intentional
Calm, consistent responses are more effective than pressure.
When Transition Challenges May Need Extra Support
You may want to seek occupational therapy support if:
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Transitions cause daily meltdowns
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Your child avoids routines
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Stress affects family life
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Strategies don’t seem to help
Support can bring clarity and relief.
How Dream Pediatric Supports Edmonton Families
Dream Pediatric is a pediatric therapy clinic based in Edmonton, and we provide in-person occupational therapy services only within the Edmonton area.
Our OT services include:
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Support for transitions and routines
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Sensory regulation strategies
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Parent coaching and education
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Play-based, child-centered care
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Neurodiversity-affirming approaches
We work closely with families to create strategies that fit real life.
Final Thoughts
Children who struggle with transitions are not being difficult — they are communicating a need for support.
With understanding, consistency, and the right strategies, transitions can become calmer and more manageable.
If you’re in Edmonton and transitions are a daily struggle, help is available.
👉 Book a free consultation with Dream Pediatric and learn how occupational therapy can support your child and your family.
