Transition Planning
Back to Inclusion Support Program Main Menu
Transitions occur when a child moves from infant to preschool care or from preschool to school age care. Transitions also happen when a child begins school or when they become a teenager. As upcoming transitions are identified, a plan to help with the transition should be developed with enough time for the child to adjust to the change.
School Entry
All team members help in the transition to school. School-based services replace early intervention supports once the child begins school. It is important for the facility to establish a working relationship with school resource personnel to ensure, program goals are developed and maintained between the school and the school age facility.
To help to prepare for the child’s transition to school entry, review the comprehensive guide: Protocol for Early Childhood Transition to School for Children with Additional Support Needs (PDF).
The protocol is based on the principle that those who know the child well – their family, the child care facility and early intervention support agencies – are the most effective people to work with school division personnel to ensure a smooth transition into the school system. When a child is ready to enter the school system, the case manager ensures that all necessary documentation is sent to the appropriate school division of choice, upon approval from the child’s parents/guardians. Necessary documentation should be sent to the division in January before the child’s first school year.
Benefits include:
- Involving parents/guardians in the transition, including choosing programs and services
- Parents participating in a step-by-step process will help alleviate anxiety and stress for the family
- Intervention services that continue from preschool to school
- Consistent interventions that best suit the child’s development and learning
- Preparing the school to meet the child’s needs, including professional development for educators, personnel and environmental changes
Transition from Child Care
One of the important transitions takes place when a child turns 13. The family of a child with additional support needs may feel that some type of care is still needed. During the review meeting, before the child’s 11th birthday, a transition plan for alternate care, if needed, should begin. This ensures that the child’s needs are met once the child turns 13. Among the considerations for the transition plan:
- Is care still needed?
- What other types of care are available?
- What will best meet the needs of the child at age 13?
Go to the next page: Frequently Asked Questions
Return to the Inclusion Support Program Main Page
