ABSTRACT
This chapter looks more closely at our own experiences of change and transition and how these can help us empathize with the children and families we work with. Putting oneself 'in the shoes of the child' is not just a useful exercise – it is also a vital part of our professional responsibility as reflective practitioners. The chapter refers to some of the major theorists who have researched and written about children's transitions, and explores how their work can help us to better understand the experience from a child's point of view. Sociologists and educationalists recognize that children often experience a similar culture shock when they are cared for outside of their home. Positive experience builds resilience of a healthy kind. Maria Robinson writes: Several researchers point out that while experience is important for healthy development in all areas, additional enrichment of the child's environment beyond what is 'normal' for most children seems to have little effect.
