Easing Transition Times: Tips for Caregivers and How JCS Supports Students with Learning Differences

Transition times can be particularly challenging for students with learning differences. Whether it's moving from one activity to another, shifting from school to home, or adjusting to a new school year, these changes can be sources of stress and anxiety. At The John Crosland School, we understand these challenges and strive to provide a supportive environment that helps students navigate these transitions smoothly. Here are some tips for parents to support their children during transition times, along with insights into how we implement these strategies at our school.

1. Establish a Routine

At Home:

Consistency is key for children with learning differences. Establishing a daily routine helps create a sense of predictability and security. Try to keep wake-up times, meals, homework sessions, and bedtimes consistent. Visual schedules can be particularly helpful, allowing your child to see what their day will look like.

At The John Crosland School:

We implement structured daily routines within the classroom. Visual schedules and clear, predictable patterns help students feel more in control and reduce anxiety about what's coming next. Teachers at Crosland are trained to maintain consistency while being flexible enough to adapt to individual needs.

2. Use Transition Warnings

At Home:

Give your child warnings before a transition occurs. For example, "In 10 minutes, it will be time to start your homework," followed by a five-minute reminder. This helps prepare them mentally for the change.

At The John Crosland School:

Our teachers use similar strategies, providing students with advance notice before transitioning between activities. This approach helps students gradually shift their focus and reduces resistance to change.

3. Create a Transition Ritual

At Home:

Having a specific ritual for transitions can ease the process. This could be a simple activity like a breathing exercise, a favorite song, or a brief walk. These rituals signal to the brain that a transition is coming and can make the shift smoother.

At The John Crosland School:

We incorporate calming activities and rituals into our daily schedule. Whether it's a few minutes of mindfulness, a short movement break in the sensory space lab, or a calming story, these rituals help students adjust and prepare for the next part of their day.

4. Communicate Clearly and Positively

At Home:

Clear, concise, and positive communication is crucial. Instead of saying, "Don't be late for school," try "Let's make sure we leave on time for a great start to your day." Positive reinforcement and clear instructions can reduce anxiety and resistance.

At The John Crosland School:

Our teachers are trained in positive reinforcement techniques and effective communication strategies. We focus on building strong relationships with our students, understanding their individual needs, and communicating in ways that foster trust and cooperation.

How The John Crosland School Supports Transitions

At JCS, we go beyond these strategies to provide comprehensive support for our students. Our small class sizes allow for individualized attention, ensuring that each student's unique needs are met. We offer social skills coaching and counseling services to help students develop coping strategies for transitions and other challenges. Additionally, our collaboration with parents ensures that the support we provide at school is reinforced at home, creating a cohesive and consistent experience for our students.

We also host events like our New Family Social, which includes activities such as a scavenger hunt of important places on campus and opportunities to meet teachers. These events are designed to make transitions into our school community as seamless and welcoming as possible for both students and their families.

Transitions are a natural part of life, but they don’t have to be a source of stress. With the right strategies and support, students with learning differences can navigate these changes successfully. At The John Crosland School, we are dedicated to providing the tools and environment necessary for our students to thrive during transitions and beyond.