This morning, I started my day with a workout. Nothing unusual as I try to include some kind of physical activity in my daily routine. But what caught me off guard was how quickly I was expected to transition from one pose to the next.

A little background: the workout was structured with six moves, each done for a set amount of time. After completing all six, you go through the entire sequence again first in reverse, then forward one more time. While a small timer in the corner of the screen told me how much time I had left in each pose, there was no warning or prep before moving on. The moment the transition hit, I felt a jolt of frustration, anxiety, and even a bit of defeat. I had to quickly gather myself physically, emotionally, and mentally to stay engaged.

This didn’t just happen once it happened about 18 times! (6 moves, done 3 times: 6 x 3 = 18, right?)

That intense workout experience made me reflect on something much bigger: the end-of-school-year transition that children everywhere are about to face.

Think about it preschoolers heading into kindergarten, kindergarteners moving into first grade, and so on. No matter the age or grade level, most kids are about to leave behind familiar routines, relationships, and rhythms they’ve had for the past nine months. And then bam! they’re in summer mode. Less structure, fewer expectations, new environments, different caregivers, unfamiliar routines, travel, camps, and perhaps new sleep schedules.

Yes, summer is often fun and relaxing. But let’s not forget: it’s a major shift. One that can impact children emotionally, mentally, and even physically.

So what can we do to help? I’m glad you asked.

Here are a few ways to prepare children for this upcoming transition:

1. Talk early and often.

Start the conversation now. Remind your child that the end of the year is coming and that change is on the horizon. Be honest about what to expect, but try to keep your own stress or anxiety in check they’ll pick up on it quickly.

2. Ask open-ended questions.

Encourage your child to express themselves.

How do you feel about the school year ending? What are you excited or nervous about? Is there anything you want to know about your next class or teacher?

3. Explore the change together.

Visit or drive by the new school if possible. Read books about starting a new grade or school. Let them draw, journal, or create to process their feelings.

4. Celebrate the transition.

Let your child make cards or small gifts for their teachers and friends. Plan a get-together with classmates or teachers over the summer. Start a summer scrapbook to document all the fun and growth they experience.

Transitions can be tough but they don’t have to be traumatic.

When we prepare children with consistency, honesty, and positivity, they are far more likely to adapt, grow, and thrive. Change is inevitable but with support, our kids can move through it with confidence.