Explore these resources to help families gain a deeper understanding of the kindergarten transition process. Find practical guides, information on special topics, and relevant research.
Websites
A Successful Kindergarten Transition
Review a brief description of the kindergarten transition and find tips families can use to support their child through this process.
Explore a concise list of practical tips families can use to prepare their child and themselves before, during, and after their child begins attending kindergarten.
Articles
Collaborative Steps: Paving the Way to Kindergarten for Young Children with Disabilities
This article offers both commentary and a case study approach to the preschool-to-kindergarten transition. It is written from the perspectives of a parent and district administrator. It emphasizes the importance of a collaborative, coordinated approach in this process. The article addresses best practices for helping children with disabilities transition to kindergarten using a 10-step approach. Many of the tips and steps are also applicable to parents and educators of typically developing children. Please note that access must be requested before viewing this article.
Practical Guides and Activities
Illinois Early Learning Project: Tip Sheets
Find answers to common questions parents have when their children are preparing to enter kindergarten, such as, "What will the teacher expect my child to be able to do?" and "What kinds of knowledge and experience help prepare my child?" The website contains links to other resources, including books to share with children who are getting ready for kindergarten.
"Introducing Me!" Family Connection Booklet
Teachers can use "Introducing Me!" to obtain information from parents about their child who is entering kindergarten. The booklet includes sections on the child's favorite toy, parents' names, and things the child does and does not like to do. It is available in English and Spanish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kindergarten Enrollment
Find answers to a variety of questions that parents may have when their children are entering kindergarten; for example:
- How do I know if my child is ready for kindergarten?
- How can I help ease those first day jitters?
- What will my child do in kindergarten?
- How can I be engaged with my child's education?
Ready Freddy: Pathways to Kindergarten Success
Explore a wealth of free resources for both families and practitioners, such as an online interactive book for children and a learning activity calendar. A video on getting children ready for kindergarten includes parent interviews about the experience of sending their child to school. This comprehensive website also offers articles that address kindergarten transition issues like transition team-building, ways to bring parents and schools together for transition planning, the importance of school attendance, and more.
Video
Preparing Your Child for Kindergarten
Watch this video for a list of what children should be able to do before entering kindergarten, steps to take (e.g., getting physicals for their children), and strategies around preparing their children for the transition.
« Go to Transition to Kindergarten
Read more:
Resource Type: Publication
National Centers: Early Childhood Development, Teaching and Learning
Age Group: Preschoolers
Audience: Teachers and Caregivers
Last Updated: September 26, 2023