2.5y–4.2y12 minSelf-careFamily timeCommunity time
Transition Buffer Plan: Now–Next–Then
A practical, calming transition routine where you plans extra time and uses a simple Now–Next–Then plan to help your child move between settings or groups, with rehearsal, choice, and a brief recap of what happened before and what is happening now.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper and a pen/pencil (or sticky notes) to make a simple Now–Next–Then plan
- a small comfort item for your child if needed (toy or blanket)
Nice to have
- a phone timer (for gentle warnings)
- 2 small toys/figures to role-play moving from one place to another
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneCalms with adult helpHeart· 20mo–3.2y· stretch
- MilestoneUses basic time conceptsMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneFollows instructions with several steps or actionsMind· 3.3y–4y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneOrders a complete familiar sequenceMind· 2.5y–4.2y· core
- MilestoneTalks About Past and Future EventsMind· 2.5y–3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneAnswers simple open questionsMind· 2.3y–3.3y· stretch· Step 3
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Plan extra time for helping children in transition, such as when they move from one setting to another or between different groups in the same setting.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)