Transition songs are a very important part of the daily routine for children, both within and outside of the music therapy session. I cannot tell you how many times singing “Everybody Sit Down” in a quiet voice has helped herd rowdy children back to the circle after a movement activity. I hear teachers singing “Clean Up, Clean Up” throughout the day in their classroom. Here are a few of my favorite transition songs…

I realize most of these songs are not exactly worthy of a Grammy, but I have found that clear and simple songs are very effective during transitions, especially for children on the autism spectrum. I have also found that simple original songs and songs piggybacked to familiar tunes can be easily memorized by teachers and assistants, making it more likely that they will be used in the classroom.

What are YOUR favorite transition songs to use?