Have you ever noticed a toddler, fully absorbed in her playset, the playground slide or jigging to her favorite rhyme during her music class? Life would be much simpler if our world operated on toddler time. However, reality checks in and eventually, we need to move or transition our little ones from their playtime to perform a different activity. Failure to transition smoothly can lead to a full-blown tantrum, taking the situation from pleasant to chaotic real quick.
The main challenge lies in ensuring a smooth transition between activities. This skill is not innate and has to be taught and learned over time. Yet, managing such transitions require more than abrupt interruptions. There are various strategies to ease toddlers from one activity to the other and prevent tantrum episodes.
It is well known that toddlers have difficulty comprehending the concept of time. Reassuring them that they will return to their fun activity does little to help. Similarly, forcing closure to an enjoyable activity can be as traumatizing for them as the prospect of being away from their parents for a day or two. So, how can we make transitions smoother for the children and us parents?
With proper planning and understanding, even the most stubborn toddlers can be taught to switch gears smoothly. This article goes on to discuss some strategies that can aid in transitioning toddlers with relative ease.
Providing Fair Warning
Observant parents recommend the use of a warning system. This system primarily involves a countdown that alerts the child to the impending closure of an activity. A timeframe is given, such as ten minutes, which is then followed by warnings at five and two-minute intervals. This technique allows the child to mentally prepare for leaving the activity.
Following the warning system's modus operandi, you would notify your toddler that in ten minutes, it will be time to head home. You may even turn it into a mini-game, saying that they only have three more turns on the slide before it's time to leave the playground.
The system is not foolproof and may require a few reminders after the initial warning. This way, your tot does not relapse back into their game, forgetting about the impending departure. Creating an incentive to leave also helps. Telling them that homemade, freshly baked cookies await them at home can become quite persuasive.
Transition Ritual Implementation
Another effective technique used in daycare centers and preschools is the implementation of a transition ritual. A good example is the 'clean-up song' which signals the end of playtime and the beginning of lunchtime. Employing a similar ritual at home could ease the transition for the toddler.
Parents can create their own transition ritual appropriate for every occasion. An example could be, packing up toys, washing hands, having a sip of water, and a transition song. This keeps the toddler engaged and creates a rhythmic pattern to follow during transitions. Remember, it's about the process and not the activity itself.
Use of Transitional Objects
Bringing a piece of the previous activity to the next one helps as well. This strategy depends largely on the activity and location. Select something that can be easily brought along without causing any disputes. When leaving a park, for instance, your child could bring along a few leaves as memorabilia. The objective is to keep their focus during the transition.
In situations where it's impractical, or even impossible to take something along, such as in a toy store, it helps to come prepared. A backpack or a purse filled with a couple of special items (stickers, a rubber car, or some Play-Doh) kept ready in advance could be handed over. The child can then sift through their trinkets while you discretely hustle them away.
Use a Timer
Often underrated, a timer can be a parent's best ally when transitioning toddlers. Instead of constantly reminding your child 'five more minutes', a simple timer can show them in real-time. Be ready to promptly take action when the alarm rings.
Who the child sees as announcing the end of an activity plays a crucial role. The blame game ensues if the parent is seen ending the fun. On the other hand, it's difficult for a child to take issue with a 'ping' of a timer. Changing the perception from the parent ending the fun to the timer can make the transition easier.