Managing change

Routines are important for young children, however, changes to routine are an inevitable part of daily life. This might look like:

• Transitioning between toys, activities or tasks; or moving from preferred to less preferred activities.
• Having a different teacher for the day / absence of regular staff.
• Changes to scheduled activities.
• Wearing a new uniform.
• Going to a new place, trying a new food, or new activity.
• Having visitors.
• Going to an appointment.
• Holidays.

Sometimes changes are unexpected and cannot be planned for. However, some changes to daily routines are known in advance and can be communicated to the child to help prepare them for what to expect.

Strategies to manage expected changes include:

• Visual supports (photographs, symbols, objects, pictures)
• Social stories
• Countdown / Timers
• Timetables and visual schedules
• Visiting a new place in advance
• Adding flexibility and gradual change into the daily routine