Shifting Gears: 3 Tips to Help Your Child Deal with Changes in Routine

A couple of weeks ago, I talked about how supporting a child while they learn and perfect their executive function skills is a lot like using training wheels when you teach them to ride a bike. If you missed the post or podcast please take a minute to check them out. 

So, what are we to do when our child is humming along with their new routine and we need to make a change? 

First, you need to make sure that you draw attention to the change. Too many times, when dealing with a "difficult" child, the decision is made to not tell them about the change because of the ensuing tantrum that might occur. In reality, NOT telling a child and springing a change on them, historically, creates more of a behavioral response than if they are adequately prepared for a change. 

Next, you need to start early by talking about the change often: "Susie, on Friday you will be riding the bus home with Karleigh. I will pick you up an hour after you get to her house." 

Lastly, you can provide additional support for your child to help them manage the change. Using the "Susie" example above, you might provide additional support by making sure that both the classroom teacher and the bus driver know about the change and encourage them to remind Susie about it in the days leading up to the change. 


The key to helping a child shift gears is planning {our October monthly theme}. Yes, it may seem like extra work in the beginning, but in the long run you will deal with fewer tantrums and less intense emotional responses. You will also have assisted your child in learning valuable life skills that will help them navigate future changes including those that will occur without time to prepare. 

What have you found helps your child shift gears?  I'd love for you to comment and share. 


Until next time, keep growing and blooming. 


Jen