6 Ways to Support Positive Behavior During Transitions

Key Takeaways:

• Transitions can lead to temporary behavior changes as children adjust to new routines and expectations.

• Talking about upcoming changes ahead of time helps children feel more prepared and secure.

• Maintaining a few consistent routines provides stability during periods of change.

• Big emotions are normal during transitions and often manifest in behavior.

• Prioritizing connection before correction can help reduce conflict.

• Offering age-appropriate choices gives children a sense of control and independence.

• Preparing for challenging situations in advance can make transitions smoother for everyone.

• If behavior challenges become frequent or intense, additional support such as Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) may be helpful.

Transitions can bring exciting opportunities for families, but they can also lead to temporary behavior changes. From the end of school to shifting sleep schedules, young children may become more emotional, resistant or frustrated as they adjust. The good news is that a few simple strategies can help children navigate these changes while supporting positive behavior and emotional regulation.

6 Strategies to Support Your Child During Transitions

Change can be challenging, no matter the age. As your family navigates transitional periods, these practices can help young children adjust and build stronger bonds. 

1. Talk about changes before they happen.

Children often handle transitions better when they know what to expect. While you can’t eliminate every surprise, you can help your child feel informed and supported as changes approach.

Whether your family is preparing for summer camp, a vacation, a new childcare arrangement or more time at home, talking about upcoming changes ahead of time can help reduce uncertainty. Simple conversations about what will stay the same and what will be different give children an opportunity to ask questions and prepare emotionally.

2. Keep a few routines consistent.

Summer doesn’t need to follow the same schedule as the school year, but maintaining some patterns can provide a sense of stability. Bedtime routines, mealtimes and regular opportunities for family connection often serve as helpful anchors throughout the day. When children know what to expect in certain areas of life, they may find it easier to manage changes in others.

3. Expect big feelings.

Transitions often bring mixed emotions. For example, a child may feel excited about summer while also missing classmates, teachers or familiar routines.

These feelings can manifest in behavior, such as increased frustration and emotional outbursts, before children have the words to express them. What’s most important is remembering that these challenging behaviors are often part of a child’s emotional learning and development. 

As a caregiver and your child’s first and most important teacher, you play an important role in helping them understand and navigate their feelings. It can be easy to become frustrated at first, but acknowledging emotions without judgment can help children feel understood and supported during this process.

4. Give children appropriate choices.

Transitions can sometimes leave children feeling like many decisions are being made for them. Offering small, age-appropriate choices can help children feel more involved and in control. For example, allow your child to choose between two activities, select their outfit for the day, or decide which book to read before bedtime. These opportunities support independence while maintaining appropriate boundaries and expectations.

5. Prepare for difficult moments.

Not every transition will go smoothly, and that’s okay. What matters most is being able to traverse these moments for a positive outcome. This often begins with reflection and planning.

Thinking ahead about potential challenges can help both children and caregivers respond more effectively. Whether it is leaving a favorite activity, starting a new camp or adapting to a different schedule, discussing expectations in advance can make transitions feel less overwhelming.

6. Know when additional support may help.

Some resistance and emotional reactions are a normal part of childhood. However, if your child’s behavior challenges become frequent, intense or disruptive across multiple settings, finding support near you is an option.

One evidence-based option for young children is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). Designed for children ages 2 to 7 and their caregivers, PCIT helps strengthen the caregiver-child relationship while teaching practical skills that support emotional regulation, cooperation and positive behavior. Through live coaching sessions, caregivers learn strategies to use in everyday interactions, helping children build confidence and navigate challenges more successfully.

To learn more about PCIT, including access to therapy, providers and early intervention, we invite you to read our blog.

Learn and Grow As a Family

Whether sessions take place in a clinic or through a PCIT telehealth visit, our goal remains the same: helping families feel supported while building stronger, healthier relationships. If you’re considering PCIT or preparing for your first appointment, know that you’re not alone. Contact our team to find a PCIT provider near you, and visit our California site to locate a PCIT provider in your community.