Investigating Factors Related to Kindergarten Readiness Using an HLM Approach (Poster 32)

• In Event: Sunday Poster Session 7:45 am
  In Poster Session: Early Education and Child Development: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Kindergarten readiness can be related to opportunity gaps and experiences in early childhood. This study employed hierarchical linear modeling to investigate child-level and school-level factors associated with kindergarten readiness. Analysis of assessment scores of 617 kindergarteners nested within 28 elementary schools in one southeastern state in the United States revealed participation in a kindergarten transition program, 4K program attendance, and family engagement were significantly associated with children’s readiness in language and literacy, mathematical thinking, and social foundations. School poverty and location were significantly associated with children’s readiness. Interaction effects between school-level and child-level factors were identified. The findings can be used to inform the design and implementation of kindergarten transition programs as well as policy making in early childhood education.

Authors

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

• Xumei Fan, University of Northern Iowa

• Alexis Jones, South Carolina First Steps

• Janice Elaine Kilburn, South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness

• Chelsea Richard, South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness