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30.8.5: Too Many Transitions

  • Page ID
    199566
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    Managing Change

    Effectively managing transitions in a toddler classroom is critical to reducing wait times and potential behavioral issues. To optimize transitions, it is important to consider a few strategic questions:

    Is this transition essential?  Is there a clear purpose for moving the children from one activity to another, or can some transitions be eliminated to streamline the day? Eliminating unnecessary transitions can significantly reduce the amount of waiting for toddlers.

    Does the transition need to involve all of the group simultaneously? Allowing children to transition in smaller groups or individually can be more efficient. For instance, smaller groups can reduce congestion and waiting time when washing hands or going outside.

    Is the transition period longer than it needs to be?  Extended transitions can create unnecessary waiting, leading to restlessness and behavioral challenges. Streamlining these periods helps maintain the children's interest and engagement.

    Do all children know the expectations during the transition? Clear instructions and expectations can help make transitions smoother and quicker, as children are less likely to be confused about what they should be doing.

    For some activities, the whole group does not have to be present to begin. For example, when reading a book to toddlers, starting the story as children arrive can minimize waiting for those already there. Unlike older children, toddlers may not be as concerned with starting a story from the beginning, allowing for a more flexible approach to group activities.

    By considering these aspects, transitions can be more efficient, reducing the amount of downtime and keeping the toddlers engaged and less prone to behavioral issues related to long waiting periods. This approach benefits the children by providing a more fluid and enjoyable experience but also aids caregivers in maintaining a calm and orderly classroom environment [1].

    Attributions:

    • [1] Maanao French, V. (2013, February). Supporting children with challenging behavior. AIAN Education Manager Webinar Series. National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning, Seattle, WA.

    30.8.5: Too Many Transitions is shared under a mixed license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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