Visual Chart, Verbal Instruction, Loving Support
Do you have a child in your ministry who struggles with transitioning from one activity to another? Here’s a few things you can do to make transitions easier:
- Create a visual chart showing the sequence of the agenda.
- Whenever possible use pictures and words on the chart
- Take the child to the chart as soon as they arrive and talk it through
- Take the child to the chart periodically throughout the event
- If appropriate, give a copy of the chart to the parents/guardians for home.
- Whenever possible, give a few minutes warning before moving to the next thing
- Give the child an important job during the transition.
These tried and true ideas work for many. The important thing to remember is that we want to be committed to loving support. Children do not usually want to be difficult. The behavior you are seeing is usually an internal struggle that needs compassion and direction.
You can be that loving support.
With much love,
Tom and Julie Meekins
