Kindergarten Readiness Assessment Protocols for Children With Visual Impairment

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: Strategies for Effective Early Childhood Education and Special Education (San Diego)

Abstract

Transition to kindergarten is challenging for many children, but particularly difficult for children with visual impairment. While there are many tools to assess visual impairment, there is not a comprehensive assessment of overall child development, knowledge, and skills appropriate for children with visual impairment. This pilot study examines the effects of new protocols and a decision tree for selecting assessments to provide meaningful information that cannot be determined with commonly used kindergarten readiness instruments. Findings suggest that the assessment protocols and individual profiles provided to parents and receiving kindergarten teachers aid in the transition to kindergarten for children with visual impairment.

Author

• Michael B Abel, University of Missouri - Kansas City