Host a Transition-to-Kindergarten Summit: Supporting Materials
Smooth transitions to kindergarten depend on strong partnerships. Find ways to use these materials to help organize and carry out a successful local transition summit.
Transitions
Children experience many transitions, including from home to an early care and education setting, between age groups or program settings, and from preschool to kindergarten. Supporting these transitions for children, families, and staff is critically important because even positive change can be challenging. How the foundation for positive transitions is laid across all levels of the system to support children, families, and staff through transitions can have far-reaching effects on children’s well-being and academic success. Program staff consider the long-term process of building and maintaining the capacity to support children and families at all levels. They also look at ways to improve how they connect and communicate within systems during transitions.
Head Start-Elementary School Shared Language Glossary
Find common terms and staff roles within Head Start programs and elementary schools, with a crosswalk comparison of terms and roles. Share the guide with all those involved in the transition-to-kindergarten process.
Supporting Children with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
In this guide, learn how to support children with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and their families through a successful transition to kindergarten.
Transition Resources for Leaders and Educators
Review a list of practical guides, special topics, and research in support of kindergarten transition efforts by leaders and educators.
Educator Practices to Support Successful Transitions to Kindergarten
Discover a list of specific, research-based activities that educators can implement during the transition to Kindergarten process. They focus on ways to foster the four key points of connection with the child's receiving school.
Collaborations, Connections, and Six Steps to Success
Learn about the four points of connection necessary in the transition process. Discover the six steps to planning for the transition and success stories from the field.
Selected Children's Books About Kindergarten
Explore this list of children’s books about the transition to kindergarten. Find stories to increase children’s comfort with their new learning setting.
Transitions Resources for Families
Review a list of resources—including practical guides, special topics, and research— that offer support to families during the kindergarten transition process
Family Engagement and Transition to Kindergarten
Discover resources and videos on the importance of engaging families and partnering with them in the transition to kindergarten.
Educators Supporting Successful Transitions to Kindergarten
Find out what key components can help ensure children’s successful transitions to kindergarten. Learn about practical ways staff can support families during the transition process.