Kindergarten Transition

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Transition

The transition to kindergarten is an important developmental milestone for young children, their families, and teachers. For young children, moving from preschool or home to kindergarten is one of the most significant transitions they will experience. Studies suggest that the majority of families would like more involvement in the transition to kindergarten planning process, as well as information about kindergarten readiness, including academic and behavioral expectations. When parents, teachers, and school administrators work together, the process of transitioning to kindergarten operates more smoothly reducing the amount of stress experienced by the child.

The most challenging times for both parents and children can be during transitions, partially because different laws and regulations often come into play. Eligibility requirements for early intervention or special education services change depending on a child’s age. If a child is under age 3, eligibility is based on whether or not the child is developmentally delayed or has a diagnosed condition that has a high probability of resulting in developmental delay.

Creating Partnerships

One of the greatest challenges for many parents and professionals who are working together as members of a student's educational team, is to maintain a sense of mutual respect and partnership. This challenge can arise when members of the team have differing opinions and are unable to reach consensus. It can also happen when one or more members of the team feel that their expertise is not valued.

As a parent, it is natural to want what is best for your child. You'll want to make sure that your child has access to the programs, teachers, and services that address your child's needs appropriately. The school administrators and teachers on the team who are responsible for implementing your child's individual educational plan would also like to be able to provide an appropriate education for each student.

Successful Partnerships

Listen respectfully to each other

Accept that we all have valuable ideas

Clarify what is expected

Recognize time and resource limitations

Create a place for open communication

Notice nonverbal communication

Understand that differences are valuable

Respect personality and cultural differences

Share complete and honest information

Talk with each other respectfully

Know that cooperation takes time, commitment and goals

Acknowledge that we all understand in a different way

Appreciate each other

Key Points for Successful Transitions

Successful transitions from one program to another and preparation of the child for the next educational environment are important goals for early childhood special education planning. The transition process can be a positive experience by presenting children and their families with new opportunities for growth and development. However, the transition from early childhood special education programs to kindergarten may create stress and present many challenges for the child, family and professionals. In order for the transition to be a positive experience, seven goals of successful transitions have been identified by Conn-Powers, Ross-Allen and Holburn (1990).

To promote the speedy adjustment of the child and family to the new setting.
To enhance the child's independent and successful participation in the new educational setting.
To promote collaboration among all participants in the transition process.
To support and empower the family in the transition process.
To ensure continuity of appropriate services in the least restrictive environments.
To increase satisfaction of all the participants with the outcomes of the transition as well as the transition process itself.
To increase the likelihood that a child is placed and maintained in the general education kindergarten and the elementary school mainstream.