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I'm a little fishy. I can swim.

Here is my tail. Here are my fins.

When I hit the water, I swim, swim, swim.

With my school of fishy friends.

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Review Daily
Start the day by reviewing the schedule together:

“First, we have circle time. Then, we go outside!”

Use It During Transitions
Before a transition, go to the schedule and point to what’s next:

“We’re all done with playtime. What’s next? Lunch time!”

Stick With It
It may take a few weeks for toddlers to fully engage with the schedule. Keep using it consistently—it becomes part of the routine and helps reduce resistance over time.

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Smooth transitions help build security, reduce anxiety, and develop self-regulation skills in young children. They're crucial for maintaining a calm, organized environment and supporting emotional development.

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Prepare a transition toolkit with items such as:
- Small board books
- Finger puppets
- Soft musical instruments
- Picture cards
These items can help keep children engaged during waiting periods.

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Arrange your room to minimize distance between activities. Keep materials organized and easily accessible. Use low shelves and clear containers so you can grab what you need while staying with the children.

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Simple songs help signal upcoming changes. Try these favorites:
- 'Clean Up, Clean Up'
- 'Now it's Time to...'
- 'Walking, Walking'
Sing the same songs consistently for each transition type.

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Miss Nina - Music & Movement for Preschool

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Preschool Circle Time | Transitions Songs and Tips

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For toddlers that have a hard time listening when it's time to line up, give them 2 choices: Do you want to hop to the line like a bunny or tiptoe like a cat?”
This gives the child a sense of control while still moving them toward the goal.

You could also give a responsibility or a "special" job.

“Can you be my line leader today and help me find the spot?”

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Move children in small groups or individually rather than all at once. While one teacher helps a few children transition, another can engage the waiting children with songs or simple activities. ("Line up if you have a pink shirt on" etc.)

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Line Up | Noodle & Pals | Songs For Children

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Give simple warnings before transitions:
- Show a picture of the next activity (on visual schedule)
- Use a gentle bell, chime, or song
- Say simple phrases like 'almost time to line up'

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Keep the timing consistent each day so toddlers know what to expect. This helps them understand the routine, stay focused, and follow directions with minimal confusion or wandering.

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❤️ Teacher Sensitivity: Emotional Support

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❤️ Teacher Sensitivity: Emotional Support

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Anticipating problems and planning appropriately. (Ex: toddler has a hard time putting shoes on for hall, toddler doesn't want to stop playing with a toy).

Goodbye Rituals: Create consistent rituals for leaving spaces (e.g., wave to the block center, say "see you later" to the classroom when leaving).

Feelings Check-In: Validate and name emotions before transitions:

“It’s hard to stop building. You feel sad, huh? Let’s take a breath together.”

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When a child resists transitions:
- Stay calm and positive
- Offer simple choices
- Use a favorite toy or book as a transition object
- Give extra time and support
- Validate their feelings

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Giving toddlers a heads-up before transitions helps them feel secure, reduces meltdowns, and builds independence. It allows them time to prepare and improves cooperation!

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How to:

Have all the children start in a circle.

The leader (teacher or child) says something like, “The wind blows for everyone who likes to play with blocks!”

Children who enjoy that activity jump up and go to a given area.

This can be used for different activities (e.g., "The wind blows for everyone who is wearing blue!").

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Clap a rhythm and have children match the clapping pattern.

For the next transition, add a marching step, and they’ll follow.

“Clap, clap, stomp, stomp, then march to the door.”

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Choose an action for each transition, such as:

“Walk like a penguin to the snack table!”

“March like a soldier to line up!”

“Tiptoe like a mouse to the reading corner!”

“Hops like a bunny to your cubby!”

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Wait time can lead to challenging behaviors because students may become bored, unsure of expectations, or overwhelmed.

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Magic finger in the air.

Magic finger everywhere.

Magic finger on my hips.

Magic finger on my lips!

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Wave, wave, wave hello. Wave hello together.

Wave, wave, wave hello. Wave hello together.

Keep going, but replace "wave" with movements children do. (To the tune of row row row you boat)

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My hands are by my side.

I'm standing up straight and tall.

My eyes are looking to the front.

I'm ready for the hall.

Shhhhhhh.

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Toddlers look to adult for cues when transitioning. Be clear and confident when giving direction so they feel reassured that you are also excited and ready to lead the way.

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"Walking Walking" Song for Leaving Classroom 

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"Walking Walking" Song for Leaving Classroom 

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(To the tune of Frère Jacques)

Walking, walking,
Walking, walking,
Down the hall,
Down the hall.
We are very quiet,
We are very careful,
One by one,
One by one.

(Switch to marching – same tune)

Marching, marching,
Marching, marching,
Down the hall,
Down the hall.
We are very quiet,

We are very careful,
Now let's stop,

Now let's stop.