Why transitions can be challenging for neurodivergent children

Play Move Improve Podcast: Understanding and Managing Transitions for Neurodivergent Children

Episode Summary

In this insightful episode, Robyn Packworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the challenges that neurodivergent children face with transitions and offers practical strategies to help.

• The cerebellum and prefrontal cortex play crucial roles in managing transitions
• Neurodivergent children may struggle with sensory processing and predicting what happens next
• Internal time management systems can be affected in neurodivergent individuals
• Transitions can be particularly stressful for children who have masked their behaviors all day

1. Provide warnings before transitions
2. Use transition objects (e.g., favorite toys, fidgets)
3. Implement visual schedules
4. Offer comforting routines (e.g., favorite snacks, songs)
5. Create a predictable after-school routine

• Visual schedules for transitions
• Comfort toy handout
• Vagus nerve drop-off handout

Robyn Packworth is a mother of three, an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, and early learning speaker. She works with the Beautiful Parents Hub in Victoria, supporting children with developmental delays, autism, anxiety, ADHD, and dyspraxia.

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• Website: playmoveimprove.com.au
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Remember, transitions can be challenging, but with understanding and the right strategies, we can make them easier for our children!