Transitions—whether big or small—can be challenging for any child. For children who have experienced trauma or are neurodiverse, even minor changes in routine can feel overwhelming and trigger big emotional reactions. Thankfully, with understanding, intentional strategies, and tools like Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®), parents, caregivers, and teachers can help kids move through transitions with confidence and safety.
Why Transitions Can Be Difficult
Transitions often mean leaving a place of comfort or predictability for the unknown. For children with a history of trauma, change may trigger feelings of loss, fear, or instability. For neurodiverse children (e.g., those with autism or ADHD), transitions can overwhelm their sensory systems, disrupt routine, and challenge their ability to process what’s next.
The result? Anxiety, meltdowns, avoidance, or even shutdowns.
But there’s hope: with preparation, connection, and tools, we can ease these moments and create a sense of safety.
1. The Role of TBRI in Managing Transitions
Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is a trauma-informed approach that emphasizes connection, empowerment, and correction to support children. Transitions offer an opportunity to use TBRI principles in ways that meet children’s needs before, during, and after the change.
Here’s how you can use TBRI to support transitions:
a. Connection Before Transitioning
Build a bridge of trust before moving to the next activity:
- Get on the child’s eye level.
- Use a calming, playful voice to explain what’s next.
- Offer choices (“Do you want to carry the timer or the schedule?”).
- Provide physical reassurance (like a hug or handhold) if the child finds comfort in touch.
b. Empowerment Tools
Empower children to manage transitions successfully:
- Meet basic needs: A child who’s hungry, thirsty, or tired will struggle more with change.
- Offer sensory tools: A fidget toy, a weighted object, or deep breathing can help regulate emotions during transitions.
c. Correction with Compassion
When a child struggles during a transition, gently guide them back to the plan with empathy. Avoid punitive reactions; instead, model emotional regulation and reinforce trust.
2. Visual Schedules: A Tool for Predictability
Visual schedules are a game-changer for children who thrive on routine and predictability. By showing what’s next in pictures or words, visual schedules:
- Reduce anxiety about the unknown.
- Create a concrete plan that children can reference.
- Allow kids to see and prepare for upcoming transitions.
How to Use Visual Schedules:
- Keep it Simple: Use images, symbols, or words tailored to the child’s age and needs.
- Involve the Child: Let them move pieces (e.g., from “To Do” to “Done”) to give them ownership.
- Provide Warnings: Use a timer or verbal prompts (“5 more minutes, then we’ll move to the car”).
- Pair it with TBRI Tools: Connection strategies—like playful reminders—make transitions feel safe.
3. Preparing for Big Transitions
When preparing for larger transitions—like starting a new school, moving, or changes in caregivers—keep the following in mind:
- Prepare Ahead of Time: Talk about the change repeatedly in a calm and positive way. Use role play or visuals to practice what’s coming.
- Create Predictability: Use social stories, calendars, or schedules to map out the change.
- Offer Control: Give children choices to help them feel secure. For example, “What toy do you want to bring for the ride?”
- Stay Connected: Prioritize relational support. A loving and regulated adult helps a child feel safe amidst change.
4. Practical Example: Morning Transitions
Let’s take a common pain point—mornings! Here’s how you can structure it using TBRI and visual tools:
- Visual Schedule: Post a morning checklist with pictures (e.g., brush teeth, eat breakfast, get dressed).
- Connection Moment: “I know mornings are tough. Do you want to race me to get shoes on? Ready, set, go!”
- Empowerment: Offer a sensory break: “Before we leave, let’s do 3 big deep breaths together.”
- Correction (If Needed): If a meltdown starts, pause and validate: “I see this is hard for you. I’m here to help.” Then redirect gently: “Let’s take it one step at a time—what comes next?”
5. Staying Regulated Yourself
Transitions can be challenging for caregivers too! When we remain calm and regulated, we help co-regulate the child. Be mindful of your tone, body language, and energy, and remember—connection always comes first.
Final Thoughts: Building Trust Through Transitions
Managing transitions for neurodiverse children or those who have experienced trauma requires preparation, connection, and empathy. By using tools like TBRI strategies and visual schedules, we can create a sense of safety that helps children navigate changes with confidence.
With your support, they’ll not only get through transitions—they’ll thrive through them.
Looking for More Tools?
Explore resources about TBRI or download customizable visual schedule templates to get started. Together, we can build safety, trust, and success for every child.
Have you found success with visual schedules or TBRI strategies? Share your experience in the comments below!
Connected Treasures 