​Transitions are the moves children and young people make from home to an early learning and childcare (ELC) setting, from there to primary, from stage to stage, from primary to secondary, between schools and from secondary to further education and beyond.

Transitions and changes are part of everyone's life. The vast majority of children and young people look forward to moving on. However transitions can be challenging and support from parents and staff can help transitions go more smoothly.

What can I do as a parent?

It helps children and young people at all transitions if parents:

• talk with them about what is going to happen

• encourage them to ask questions

• encourage them to talk about any concerns they may have

• listen carefully to their concerns and consider sharing them with other relevant people

• help them to become familiar with the new school or setting and what will be expected of them.

See also the advice on supporting your child during specific transitions:

• from home to early learning and childcare
• starting school
• changing school
• leaving school.​

Further information

Find transitions support and advice in the context of COVID-19.

Scottish Transitions Forum – Improving the experiences of young people with additional support needs going through transitions​.