Parenting Through Transitions: Helping Children Adapt to Change

Life is full of transitions — from starting school to welcoming a new sibling, navigating divorce, moving homes, or shifting between caregivers. While adults understand that change is inevitable, children often experience transitions as stressful, confusing, or overwhelming.

With decades of experience in child development and family systems, Dr. Aenne Grannis helps families navigate these moments with empathy and skill.

Why Transitions Are Challenging for Children

Children thrive on predictability. When routines shift, children may show signs such as increased irritability, difficulty sleeping, behavioral regressions, clinginess or separation anxiety, trouble focusing, and emotional outbursts.

These reactions are normal — not signs of misbehavior. They are a child's way of expressing uncertainty.

Common Transitions Families Face

Common transitions include starting daycare or school, changing classrooms or teachers, divorce or custody adjustments, introducing a new sibling, moving to a new home, blending families, significant schedule changes, and loss or major life events.

Each transition affects children differently depending on age, temperament, and support systems.

How Parents Can Support Their Children

1. Maintain Routines Wherever Possible

Consistency helps children feel secure. Keep bedtime, mealtimes, and rituals steady when other things are changing.

2. Prepare Children in Advance

Explain what will happen in simple, age-appropriate terms. Visuals, timelines, and stories can help younger children.

3. Validate Their Feelings

Children need space to express fear, sadness, or excitement. Acknowledging these emotions builds trust.

4. Stay Connected Through Quality Time

Even 10 minutes of focused attention can reduce anxiety and strengthen attachment.

5. Communicate With Schools or Caregivers

Teachers, counselors, and other caregivers can help reinforce stability when they understand what your child is experiencing.

How Parent Coaching Helps Families Through Change

During times of transition, parent coaching provides a clear understanding of age-appropriate expectations, tools for managing emotional and behavioral responses, support for communicating with schools or co-parents, guidance for maintaining structure while adapting to change, and strategies for promoting resilience and connection.

Families often report feeling more grounded and better prepared to support their children after just a few sessions.

Growing Together Through Change

Transitions can be challenging, but they are also opportunities for growth. When parents feel supported and informed, children feel more secure — and families emerge stronger.

With compassionate guidance and a practical, family-centered approach, Dr. Aenne helps families navigate change with confidence, clarity, and connection.