From Home to Kindy or Prep: Occupational Therapy Strategies to Support Smooth Transitions
- Taryn van der Westhuizen
- Jan 5
- 3 min read
Written by Taryn – Occupational Therapist, Nurtured Growth Therapy
Starting childcare, kindy, or Prep is a huge milestone—not just for little ones, but for parents too. I see it every week with the families I work with in Ipswich: excitement, nerves, and sometimes a few tears (and not always from the kids!). Whether your child is going to childcare for the first time, starting kindy, or moving into Prep, it can feel overwhelming. But with some preparation and support, this transition can be a really positive and empowering experience.
I work with families to build strong foundations for transitions that help children feel confident, independent, and connected.
why these transitions matter
Moving into a new environment isn’t just about learning new routines or making friends. Children also have to adjust to:
New routines and expectations
Different adults and peers
Structured group environments
Being apart from their caregivers
For some children—especially those with sensory processing differences, regulation challenges, or social communication needs—these changes can feel overwhelming. That’s where my work as an occupational therapist comes in: supporting school readiness and emotional wellbeing.
neuroscience-informed strategies i use with families
Here are some practical strategies I share with parents to ease the transition to childcare, kindy, or Prep:
1. Create a Visual Countdown
I often suggest families use a calendar or visual chart to count down the days until kindy or Prep starts. Neuroscience research shows that visual supports help children anticipate change, which reduces anxiety and builds a sense of predictability.
2. Visit the New Environment Together
Short visits to the centre can make a huge difference. I encourage parents to let children meet educators, explore the space, and play while you’re nearby. Familiarity helps children feel safe and confident.
3. Practice Goodbye Rituals
Creating a consistent, calm goodbye routine can give children a sense of control. Simple rituals, like a wave or a special phrase, help the brain process separation and feel secure.
4. Role-Play and Story Time
I love using social stories or role-playing the day ahead. Children can “practice” drop-offs, playtime, or pack-up. Neuroscience tells us that repeated, low-pressure exposure helps the brain feel more comfortable with new experiences.
5. Adjust Routines Ahead of Time
I often guide families to gradually align wake-ups, meals, and naps with the new kindy or Prep schedule. This helps children adapt more easily to the structured day.
6. Acknowledge Big Feelings
It’s normal for children to feel nervous or uncertain. I encourage parents to help children name their feelings and reassure them it’s okay to have them. Validating emotions supports emotional regulation and resilience.
building confidence through everyday skills
I also work with families on self-help skills that make transitions easier. These include:
Self-Help Skills: putting on shoes, managing lunchboxes, toileting independence, and handwashing.
Communication & Social Skills: asking for help, taking turns, following instructions, recognising their name and belongings.
Sensory & Emotional Regulation: using calming & alerting strategies, noticing when they feel overwhelmed, and managing transitions like pack-up time.
Practicing these skills in everyday routines gives children the confidence to tackle new environments successfully.
how i support school readiness as an ot
Occupational therapy helps children develop the foundational skills they need to thrive in early learning settings. When I work with children, we focus on:
Emotional regulation for separation and group settings
Motor skills for climbing, sitting, drawing, and using tools like scissors
Sensory processing for tolerating busy environments and routine changes
Fine motor and self-care skills like dressing, toileting, and feeding
Attention and participation to engage with new tasks and routines
If you’re wondering how to prepare your child for kindy or Prep, or if your little one is finding the transition challenging, I can help assess and support their development in a playful and practical way.
final thoughts from me
Starting childcare, kindy, or Prep is a big change—but it’s also an exciting opportunity for growth. With preparation, support, and a gentle approach, your child can step into this new environment feeling capable, confident, and connected.
If you’re noticing signs that your child might need a little extra help with the transition, I’d love to walk alongside you.
let's make transitions smoother together
Follow me on Instagram for tips on emotional regulation, sensory skills, and self-help skills to help your child feel confident and ready
If you’re wondering how to prepare your child for kindy or Prep, or if your little one is finding the transition challenging, I can help assess and support their development in a playful and practical way.
