Changes & Transitions
Coping with changes in routine, environment, or expectations, leading to anxiety or distress during transitions between activities or settings.
- Maintain predictable lesson structures to reduce uncertainty and support focus.
- Provide clear, consistent, predictable routines.
- Use appropriate visual cues, e.g., Objects of Reference, Photos, Symbols, Words, Now and Next boards, half/whole day visual timetables, sand timers.
- Give advanced warning of any changes and adequate time to process this and adjust.
- Explicitly teach about change and help the learner to develop strategies to cope with unexpected changes, e.g., exploring scenarios and creating Plan B and Plan C options.
- Use social stories to prepare for unfamiliar situations. This reduces anxiety and builds confidence in navigating new experiences.