Tackling Transitions with Toddlers: Helping Your Child Cope with Change, Ep. 34

Transitions are part of everyday life—but for toddlers, even the smallest changes can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s time to leave the park, start bedtime, or shift from one activity to the next, those moments often lead to big emotions and bigger meltdowns. In this special episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we’re digging into the heart of why transitions are so hard for young children—and what you can do to make them easier for everyone.

Host Jessica Stinson is joined by early childhood experts Victoria Bolton and Lennox Steele, who break down the science of toddler behavior and the emotional needs behind those outbursts. Together, they unpack how toddlers experience change, why structure and routine are so important, and how parents can respond with empathy instead of frustration. You’ll learn practical, real-world strategies like using visual schedules, offering limited choices, and incorporating movement to turn chaotic transitions into calmer, more connected moments.

If your child melts down when it’s time to clean up, put on shoes, or leave grandma’s house—this episode is for you. You’ll walk away with tools to build your child’s emotional regulation skills, strengthen your bond, and stay grounded even when things don’t go as planned. Because helping your toddler cope with change starts with you.

 

00:00 – 02:00 – Meet our guests: Victoria & Lennox

03:30 – 05:00 – Why toddlers struggle with transitions

06:00 – 08:00 – How behavior is a cry for connection

10:00 – 13:00 – Emotional regulation and your role in it

14:00 – 16:30 – First/then strategies & transition language

17:00 – 19:30 – Why visual schedules and routines help

20:00 – 23:00 – Toddler attention spans and realistic expectations

24:00 – 26:00 – One simple tip: give a heads up

26:00 – 27:30 – Final thoughts and encouragement

Key Takeaways

Why Transitions Trigger Big Emotions
Toddlers are wired for control and routine—but lack the language to express it. That combo makes transitions a perfect storm for stress.

Behavior Is Communication
Acting out isn’t “bad behavior”—it’s often a child’s way of saying, “I’m overwhelmed.”

The Power of Predictability
Visual schedules, routines, and countdowns help toddlers know what’s next, making them feel safe.

Strategies for Smoother Shifts
First/then language, choices, movement, and calm adult responses help toddlers feel in control—even when they’re not.

It Starts with You
You can’t co-regulate with your child unless you’re regulated first. Your calm matters.