Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 1.4: Promote children’s emotional well-being
Learning outcome: Understand the needs of children during transition and significant events
Assessment criteria: Explain the role of the Early Years practitioner in preparing a child for a planned transition
Planned transitions are key to ensuring that children have a smooth and positive experience as they move from one environment to another. Early Years practitioners play an important role in preparing children for these transitions, by helping them to understand what is happening and why, and supporting them to feel confident and excited about the change.
To support a child’s transition between settings, Early Years practitioners should work closely with the child’s family and other professionals involved. This will ensure that everyone is aware of the child’s individual needs and can work together to make the transition as smooth as possible.
The Early Years practitioner should plan activities and experiences that will help the child to feel comfortable and confident in their new environment. This could include visits to the new setting and getting to know the people that will be present there. They should also provide opportunities for the child to express any concerns they may have, and reassure them that they will be supported throughout the transition.
It is important to remember that every child is unique and will respond differently to transition. Some children may take longer to adjust than others, and may need more support from their Early Years practitioner or other professionals, such as SENCO officers or speech and language therapists. However, with patience and understanding, all children can successfully navigate a planned transition.