Transitioning to Kindergarten During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Children's Perspectives

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 11
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Children's Experiences Through Qualitative Methods

Abstract

Aiming to understand how kindergarteners (ages 5-6) experience the transition to formal schooling during the COVID-19 Pandemic, we ask (1) What are kindergarteners’ understandings of COVID-19 and its impact on schooling? and (2) What are kindergarteners perceived positive and challenging schooling experiences during COVID-19? We conducted in-depth interviews with seven kindergartners. Our thematic analysis revealed that the children had general understanding of COVID-19 but they narrowly focused on mask-wearing as its impact on schooling. Homework and worksheets dominated their perception about school experiences, and they expressed ambiguous emotions towards school. Based on the findings, we discuss how this study addresses research gaps in kindergarten transition during COVID-19 and challenges the COVID-19 schooling narrative of learning loss and emotional trauma.

Authors

• Michael Sheridan, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• X. Christine Wang, University at Buffalo - SUNY