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As the school year draws to a close, I often find myself reflecting on the many transitions I’ve experienced in my life—both big and small. One that stands out in my mind was the transition from elementary school to middle school. At the time, my elementary school—my safe haven and the only school I’d known—was closing its middle school program, forcing me to switch to a new school at one of the most difficult times for any kid. I remember the uncertainty, the fear, and the loneliness I felt during that transition.
I made the decision to attend the same middle school as my best friend, thinking that at least we would have each other. While he seemed to thrive, getting involved in sports and making new friends, I struggled to fit in. I began to feel more and more isolated. It was a time when my confidence was at an all-time low, and the lack of support from friends, family, and teachers only made it worse. I was bullied for what seemed like no reason at all, and I internalized the pain and shame from those experiences. The feelings of being alone stayed with me for years, affecting how I saw myself and how I interacted with others.
However, looking back, I can see how that experience shaped who I am today. It taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and what true friendship and support should look like. It also taught me what it means to show loyalty, and those lessons have driven me to become a better husband, father, friend, and educator.
When I look back, I realize how essential it is to approach transitions with mindfulness. During that time, I was unprepared for the change, which led to feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. That lack of preparation didn’t just stem from logistical concerns—it also came from emotional uncertainty. I didn't have the tools I needed to navigate the social and emotional aspects of transitioning, and as a result, the challenges felt far more overwhelming than they needed to be.
What I know now is that preparation—both mentally and emotionally—is key to managing transitions successfully. If I had taken time to reflect on what I was going through and to plan for the upcoming change, I would have been better equipped to face those challenges. I could have better identified my strengths, set realistic expectations, and engaged in self-compassion during those difficult moments.
That experience taught me that transitions don’t have to be a source of stress. By taking small, intentional steps—whether it's reflecting on the change ahead, setting goals, or maintaining a sense of structure—those transitions can become opportunities for growth and resilience.
This is where the idea of mindful transitions becomes crucial. In my work with neurodivergent learners, I’ve observed that they often face significant challenges when transitioning—whether it’s from one school year to the next, from school to summer break, or from one academic task to another. The anxiety and stress that come with these changes can feel even more intense when there’s a lack of structure or preparation.
For children, particularly those who may struggle with managing transitions due to neurodivergence, it’s essential to approach change with a plan. This might include setting small goals for a summer break, reflecting on past successes, or simply having a routine to anchor them during moments of uncertainty. As educators and parents, we can play a vital role in helping these students prepare for transitions by guiding them to reflect, plan, and prepare emotionally for what lies ahead.
Mindful transitions don’t just make the process easier—they make it a learning opportunity. They teach resilience, emotional regulation, and the power of preparation. If we take the time to help students, especially neurodivergent learners, build tools for navigating change, we not only reduce their stress but also equip them with lifelong skills to manage future transitions with confidence.
In our next blog, we’ll dive into how mindfulness can specifically support neurodivergent children during transitions, providing them with strategies to manage the stress and uncertainty that often accompany change.