ERIC Number: EJ1257659
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020
Pages: 18
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1059-308X
EISSN: N/A
Examining the Value of a Summer Kindergarten Transitioning Program for Children, Families, and Schools
Griebling, Susan; Gilbert, Jaesook
School Community Journal, v30 n1 p191-208 2020
The transition to more formal schooling in kindergarten can be difficult for young children and their families. However, preparing children for this transition can produce positive results. This article examines the qualitative results of a four- to six-week transition program for 715 children. Data include parent and school surveys as well as school personnel reports and discussions from two years of the program, involving two separate groups of children. This qualitative data suggested positive affects for children's social/emotional readiness for school. Children who attended the program became leaders in the classroom and experienced less anxiety. Because the transitions in the start of the school year were easier, teachers had more instructional time with the children early in the school year. Children with special needs received more support, and families became connected with the schools on multiple levels. Parents developed friendships with other families and overall felt less anxious about their child starting school.
Descriptors: Summer Programs, Kindergarten, School Readiness, Program Descriptions, Parent Attitudes, Social Development, Emotional Development, Anxiety, Program Effectiveness, Student Leadership, Teacher Student Relationship, Special Needs Students, Family School Relationship, Friendship, School Role, School Districts, Self Control, Parent Surveys
Academic Development Institute. 121 North Kickapoo Street, Lincoln, IL 62656. Tel: 1-800-759-1495; Web site: http://www.schoolcommunitynetwork.org/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education; Elementary Education; Kindergarten; Primary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Kentucky
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A