1. Maintain Routines

Consistency and stability are key.

Where you can, keep things like bedtimes and mealtimes the same.  Structure helps children feel safe so, by providing this during times of change and transition, you are helping to restore a sense of safety.

‍2. Listen

Spend time listening to any concerns your children may have.  This will help them work through their feelings about the change.

If they have difficulty articulating this try using labels they can select like ‘happy’, ‘sad’, ‘worried’. 

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3. Time to Prepare

Try to give your children plenty of warning that a major change is approaching.  This will allow them time to process and accept the change.  

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4. Stay Connected

Around times of change it is important to reinforce your child’s connection with you.  It is important that they know your bond is a constant – no matter what else changes around them.   

‍5. Use Resources

There are many children’s books available to support children through times of change.

Alternatively, search online for articles or fun and engaging Printables that you can enjoy as a family.

6. Past Changes

Think about life changes that your child has encountered and successfully navigated in the past.  Ask them to think about how they felt before and after the change.  Events might include starting school, moving house, getting a new brother or sister and so on. 

 7. Choices and Input

It’s easy for children to feel they are losing control over their own lives when big changes happen.  You can help overcome this by asking them to make small choices or getting them to play an active part in the change – building a sense of engagement.