Transition Checklists

The voyage changes as the ship gets larger. Use these checklists to scan the horizon for the next set of challenges—and opportunities.

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1. Early Childhood (Ages 3-5)

The "Diagnosis & Early Intervention" Phase

What's Changing: Moving from "toddler quirks" to identifying neurotypes; entry into the school system.

Challenges:

• Sensory overload in preschool classrooms.
• "Potty training" delays (often interoception issues).
• Meltdowns due to lack of communication skills.

Preparation Checklist:

• Evaluation: If you suspect ADHD/Autism, request a "Child Find" evaluation from your local school district (free in the US) or see a developmental pediatrician.
• Services: Explore Early Intervention (EI) services (Speech, OT, PT).
• Preschool: Look for play-based, low-ratio settings. Ask: "How do you handle meltdowns?"
• Safety: Secure your home (door alarms, locks) if your child is a "runner" (eloper).
• Visuals: Start using simple picture schedules (e.g., "First Shoes, Then Car").

Co-Parent Discussion:

• "Do we agree on pursuing a diagnosis?"
• "How will we handle discipline differently than our parents did?"