Supporting At-Promise Children for Kindergarten Readiness: Impact of a Summer Transition Program

• In Event: Transitioning to and From Early Care and Education Settings

Abstract

The Countdown to Kindergarten (CTK) program was developed to increase family awareness of kindergarten expectations, create a positive relationship with families, and support smooth school transition and kindergarten readiness for children who were from diverse backgrounds and/or had adverse experiences. We used a mixed methods design to study the impact of CTK on 320 children in 16 randomly selected kindergarten classrooms. We found that children who participated in CTK demonstrated more academic readiness, more family engagement, and substantially stronger home school relations than those who were eligible but did not participate in CTK. Children who participated in CTK demonstrated confidence and strong communication and leadership skills. The findings could inform the development of kindergarten transition programs and policy making.

Authors

• Xumei Fan, University of Northern Iowa
  Presenting Author

• Leigh K. D'Amico, University of South Carolina
  Presenting Author

• Janice Kilburn, South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness
  Presenting Author

• Alexis Jones, South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness
  Presenting Author

• Chelsea Richard, South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness
  Presenting Author

• Sommer Garrett, University of South Carolina
  Presenting Author

• Elizabeth Logan Leverage, University of South Carolina
  Presenting Author