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1. Goodbye Old, Hello New! Transitioning from Preschool to Kindergarten Put this slide up as participants are entering.
Participants need to be in small groups, preferably at round tables in groups of 8 (depending on number of participants).
Supplies needed: Laptop, LCD projector, screen, pens, pencils, flip chart, markers, Big Paper
Copies of handouts for each participant:
Power point handout
Teacher handouts
Valuing Diversity in Your Classroom
Customer Service Key to Creating Family-Friendly Schools
Parent Involvement Centers Suggestions, Ideas and Whats Working from Small Group Discussions
Act 603 of 2003
Put this slide up as participants are entering.
Participants need to be in small groups, preferably at round tables in groups of 8 (depending on number of participants).
Supplies needed: Laptop, LCD projector, screen, pens, pencils, flip chart, markers, Big Paper
Copies of handouts for each participant:
Power point handout
Teacher handouts
Valuing Diversity in Your Classroom
Customer Service Key to Creating Family-Friendly Schools
Parent Involvement Centers Suggestions, Ideas and Whats Working from Small Group Discussions
Act 603 of 2003
2. Goodbye Old, Hello New!
Adjusting to Change
Developing Skills for Transitions
Welcome the groups and introduce trainers
Go over logistics (restrooms, refreshments, break times)
Now wed like to get to know you and give you some time to get to know each other.
Choose an ice-breaker activity. Examples: (Do ONE of the following)
Have people look in their purse or pocket and pull something out that tells something about themselves. Have them say their name and then introduce her/himself explaining why it is typical of him/her. (Example: calendar they are always busy)
OR
Have everyone list the letters of their first and last name (or first name only if they have a very long name). Have them write an adjective describing him/herself that begins with each letter of their name. Then ask each person to say their name and read their adjectives.
If you have more than 20-25 participants you will need to use a larger group activity due to the amount of time this would take.
Welcome the groups and introduce trainers
Go over logistics (restrooms, refreshments, break times)
Now wed like to get to know you and give you some time to get to know each other.
Choose an ice-breaker activity. Examples: (Do ONE of the following)
Have people look in their purse or pocket and pull something out that tells something about themselves. Have them say their name and then introduce her/himself explaining why it is typical of him/her. (Example: calendar they are always busy)
OR
Have everyone list the letters of their first and last name (or first name only if they have a very long name). Have them write an adjective describing him/herself that begins with each letter of their name. Then ask each person to say their name and read their adjectives.
If you have more than 20-25 participants you will need to use a larger group activity due to the amount of time this would take.
3. The goal of this training is to provide information to teachers that will assist them in enhancing parental involvement during the transition from preschool to kindergarten.
As children transition from one educational setting to another, they do so with mixed emotions. The purpose of this module is to identify challenges they face as well as activities to assist in helping parents and students feel comfortable and respected, that they belong at school, and supported by teachers.
We are here to provide you with the most up-to-date research and information about how you can help students and their parents as they transition from preschool to elementary school:
1. Adjust to the change, and
2. Develop the knowledge and skills they need for this transition
As children transition from one educational setting to another, they do so with mixed emotions. The purpose of this module is to identify challenges they face as well as activities to assist in helping parents and students feel comfortable and respected, that they belong at school, and supported by teachers.
We are here to provide you with the most up-to-date research and information about how you can help students and their parents as they transition from preschool to elementary school:
1. Adjust to the change, and
2. Develop the knowledge and skills they need for this transition
4. Transition Levels
Pre-School Kindergarten
Elementary- Middle School
Middle School High School
High School Post Secondary
In our daily lives our world is changing at a rapid pace and we must prepare our children for these changes and the better prepared they are for these life transitions the more successful they will be. As students progress through the educational process, we must help them develop transition skills. Preparing your child or children to transition to Kindergarten can be very challenging for the children and is the beginning. Other transitions will occur from Elementary to Middle School, to High School, and then on to Post Secondary or into the work force. We need to work in partnership with parents to prepare our students for these many changes. Emphasis must be placed on the individual needs of these students and adaptation may be needed in order to meet the needs of all students. Most will be placed in a regular classroom with modifications being added as needed for the individual student.
In our daily lives our world is changing at a rapid pace and we must prepare our children for these changes and the better prepared they are for these life transitions the more successful they will be. As students progress through the educational process, we must help them develop transition skills. Preparing your child or children to transition to Kindergarten can be very challenging for the children and is the beginning. Other transitions will occur from Elementary to Middle School, to High School, and then on to Post Secondary or into the work force. We need to work in partnership with parents to prepare our students for these many changes. Emphasis must be placed on the individual needs of these students and adaptation may be needed in order to meet the needs of all students. Most will be placed in a regular classroom with modifications being added as needed for the individual student.
5. Why is it important for schools to help parents stay involved during this transition? Activity #1: (6-8 minutes)
Ask everyone to pair up with someone they dont know very well and take a few minutes to discuss this question Why is it important for schools to help parents stay involved during this transition? Let them talk about it for 2-3 minutes then ask for a few people to volunteer to share their answers. After about 3-5 minutes of answers then say:
Young children just starting kindergarten will have mixed emotions during transitional times, parents share this mixture of emotions. The transition and the school experience can be enhanced when schools and parents work together. When students are less anxious, parents are less anxious and more supportive of the school.
Some other reasons schools should help parents stay involved are:
Activity #1: (6-8 minutes)
Ask everyone to pair up with someone they dont know very well and take a few minutes to discuss this question Why is it important for schools to help parents stay involved during this transition? Let them talk about it for 2-3 minutes then ask for a few people to volunteer to share their answers. After about 3-5 minutes of answers then say:
Young children just starting kindergarten will have mixed emotions during transitional times, parents share this mixture of emotions. The transition and the school experience can be enhanced when schools and parents work together. When students are less anxious, parents are less anxious and more supportive of the school.
Some other reasons schools should help parents stay involved are:
6. Student achievement increases with increased duration and intensity of parental involvement
Students with involved parents have
Higher test scores and grades
Better attendance
More positive attitudes and behavior
Higher graduation rates
Studies show:
Student achievement increases directly with increased duration and intensity of parental involvement. (Henderson and Berla, 1994)
Students with involved parents have: higher test scores and grades, better attendance, more positive attitudes and behavior, and higher graduation rates (Cooper, 1999; Horn & West, 1992; Paulson, Marchant, & Rothlisberg, 1998).
Studies show:
Student achievement increases directly with increased duration and intensity of parental involvement. (Henderson and Berla, 1994)
Students with involved parents have: higher test scores and grades, better attendance, more positive attitudes and behavior, and higher graduation rates (Cooper, 1999; Horn & West, 1992; Paulson, Marchant, & Rothlisberg, 1998).
7. Parents academic level, socioeconomic level, and ethnic or racial origin are not determining factors for academic success
Successful students have parents that:
Have a positive attitude about education
Believe their children can do well academically
Convey that belief to their children
Studies also show:
The academic level of parents, their socioeconomic level, and their ethnic or racial origin are not determining factors for academic success (Henderson and Berla, 1994).
Successful students have parents that have a positive attitude about education, believe their children can do well academically, and convey that belief to their children (Henderson and Mapp, 2002).
Parents often dont know this information. Helping them be aware of these facts can be key to helping parents understand how to better support their children.
Studies also show:
The academic level of parents, their socioeconomic level, and their ethnic or racial origin are not determining factors for academic success (Henderson and Berla, 1994).
Successful students have parents that have a positive attitude about education, believe their children can do well academically, and convey that belief to their children (Henderson and Mapp, 2002).
Parents often dont know this information. Helping them be aware of these facts can be key to helping parents understand how to better support their children.
8. Mandates for Parent Involvement
No Child Left Behind
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973(revised)
Title I
Arkansas Standards
ACSIP (Arkansas Consolidated School Improvement Plan),
Act 603 of 2003 But, if these are not reasons enough, there are laws mandating that schools work to keep parents as partners in their childrens education.
These are just a few of the laws.
But, if these are not reasons enough, there are laws mandating that schools work to keep parents as partners in their childrens education.
These are just a few of the laws.
9. Pre-School Kindergarten Transitions What do we do here at _(name of school)__ to help students and their parents transition to kindergarten? Were going to take a few minutes now to talk about what we do.
Activity #2: (8-10 minutes)
Have the participants pair up with a new partner (or in large groups in groups or 3-4). Ask them to take 2-3 minutes to talk about this question What do we do to help students and their parents transition to kindergarten? Take about 3-5 minutes and ask for volunteers to share what they discussed.
What do we do here at _(name of school)__ to help students and their parents transition to kindergarten? Were going to take a few minutes now to talk about what we do.
Activity #2: (8-10 minutes)
Have the participants pair up with a new partner (or in large groups in groups or 3-4). Ask them to take 2-3 minutes to talk about this question What do we do to help students and their parents transition to kindergarten? Take about 3-5 minutes and ask for volunteers to share what they discussed.
10. What Challenges Will Students Face with Transitions from Preschool to Kindergarten? Socially
Sharing
Fitting In
Peer pressure
Fears
Taking turns
Respecting differences
Is the child prepared socially to enter school ready to learn? Does the child know how to share or to take turns? What fears does the child have about entering school and transitioning to a new environment? Has the child played in a group before?
Preparing to enter school for the first time can be very stressful for the child and the parent. The school must be prepared to meet the needs of students as they enter their school. Schools need to prepare a welcoming and nurturing environment that encourages learning, curiosity, and provides a safe and happy learning community. Social skills will play an important role in how successful each child will be in school. Most activities in the Kindergarten classroom take place in a group setting and this may be the first time some children have been required to interact with other children. Can these children play in a group, share, or take turns? Each child needs to feel secure in the new environment and feel like they belong. It is important for schools to embrace, be respectful of and responsive to the cultural diversity of their school community. Building good social skills are critical to the success of each child.Is the child prepared socially to enter school ready to learn? Does the child know how to share or to take turns? What fears does the child have about entering school and transitioning to a new environment? Has the child played in a group before?
Preparing to enter school for the first time can be very stressful for the child and the parent. The school must be prepared to meet the needs of students as they enter their school. Schools need to prepare a welcoming and nurturing environment that encourages learning, curiosity, and provides a safe and happy learning community. Social skills will play an important role in how successful each child will be in school. Most activities in the Kindergarten classroom take place in a group setting and this may be the first time some children have been required to interact with other children. Can these children play in a group, share, or take turns? Each child needs to feel secure in the new environment and feel like they belong. It is important for schools to embrace, be respectful of and responsive to the cultural diversity of their school community. Building good social skills are critical to the success of each child.
11. What Challenges Will Students Face? Academically
Positive learning attitude
Listening skills
Pay attention
Follow simple instructions
Recognize letters, numbers, colors, and shapes
Find solutions for basic problems
Although each child develops at his or her own developmental level, success in school will be determined by having a positive learning attitude. Is the child excited about learning?
Good listening skills are critical for success in school. Does the child have listening skills and follow directions? Can he or she focus on a task for ten minutes or longer? Many children enter school without having a structured environment, having spent many hours in front of the television being entertained. These children often have difficulty maintaining focus and following simple instructions.
Do they understand that letters and numbers mean something? Can the child recognize letters, colors, and shapes? Can the child count to ten? Does he or she know their address and telephone number? Can they write their name using letters? These are some of the skills that are addressed in the Kindergarten screening.
Can the child find solutions for basic problems and communicate those responses? Children need to be encouraged and/or allowed to solve problems and communicate for themselves whenever possible. These learning experiences enable them to develop the skills to make responsible decisions. Although each child develops at his or her own developmental level, success in school will be determined by having a positive learning attitude. Is the child excited about learning?
Good listening skills are critical for success in school. Does the child have listening skills and follow directions? Can he or she focus on a task for ten minutes or longer? Many children enter school without having a structured environment, having spent many hours in front of the television being entertained. These children often have difficulty maintaining focus and following simple instructions.
Do they understand that letters and numbers mean something? Can the child recognize letters, colors, and shapes? Can the child count to ten? Does he or she know their address and telephone number? Can they write their name using letters? These are some of the skills that are addressed in the Kindergarten screening.
Can the child find solutions for basic problems and communicate those responses? Children need to be encouraged and/or allowed to solve problems and communicate for themselves whenever possible. These learning experiences enable them to develop the skills to make responsible decisions.
12. What Challenges Will Students Face? Emotionally
Express feelings
Happy
Sad
Worried
Anxious
Separation anxiety Children need to be able to express their feelings in order to be able to communicate effectively. Can the child use words to express feelings? Are they aware of other peoples feelings? Do they know how to express empathy? Can he or she resolve conflicts peacefully? Will the child try new things and work independently? Can he or she wait for their turn? Children need to be able to express joy, happiness, sadness, and to build empathy skills.
How does the child react when he or she is left at school? Does the child cry for hours or is he or she easily distracted? Separation anxiety can be one of the most challenging moments for both parents and children. Children need to be able to express their feelings in order to be able to communicate effectively. Can the child use words to express feelings? Are they aware of other peoples feelings? Do they know how to express empathy? Can he or she resolve conflicts peacefully? Will the child try new things and work independently? Can he or she wait for their turn? Children need to be able to express joy, happiness, sadness, and to build empathy skills.
How does the child react when he or she is left at school? Does the child cry for hours or is he or she easily distracted? Separation anxiety can be one of the most challenging moments for both parents and children.
13. What Challenges Will Students Face? Physically
Healthy
Run-jump-throw
Dress themselves
Tying shoes
Bathroom responsibilities Most schools require immunization and a physical before entering school. Children need to be provided nutritious meals at home and at school for healthy development.
Regular physical activity should be included in every home and school environment. Can they run, jump, throw, skip, and jump rope? Can they kick and catch a ball?
Children need to be able to dress themselves and prepare for school. Can they put on their dresses, pants and shirts? Can they tie their shoes? Can they locate their backpack?
Children should be capable of being responsible for their own bathroom needs. Children need to be able to feed themselves.
Children entering school will be using crayons, pencils, and scissors. Although they may not be proficient they should be able to manipulate these instruments safely.
The school district must be able to adapt to the individual needs of each student. The schools special education and gifted and talented departments can assist with individual needs. Most schools require immunization and a physical before entering school. Children need to be provided nutritious meals at home and at school for healthy development.
Regular physical activity should be included in every home and school environment. Can they run, jump, throw, skip, and jump rope? Can they kick and catch a ball?
Children need to be able to dress themselves and prepare for school. Can they put on their dresses, pants and shirts? Can they tie their shoes? Can they locate their backpack?
Children should be capable of being responsible for their own bathroom needs. Children need to be able to feed themselves.
Children entering school will be using crayons, pencils, and scissors. Although they may not be proficient they should be able to manipulate these instruments safely.
The school district must be able to adapt to the individual needs of each student. The schools special education and gifted and talented departments can assist with individual needs.
14. Kindergarten Transitions Components for Successful Transitions Welcoming environment
Build community
partnerships
The schools must involve all agencies in the kindergarten transition process so that both students and parents will feel welcome and comfortable in the transition from pre-school to public school. Teachers need to stress the importance of the parents continuing role in their childs education.
The objectives for kindergarten transitions are to develop community partnership between the public schools and local pre-school agencies including centers, homes and parents. It is important for the public schools to provide information and assistance to children and families in the kindergarten transition process.
Activity #3:(3 minutes)
Take a few minutes and get people to respond to these questions: (Pause for answers between each question.)
Now look at the picture in the power point. How does it make you feel? How would you feel about coming to this new school?
After a few answers say
Remember, first impressions are often lasting impressions.
Go to the next slide.
The schools must involve all agencies in the kindergarten transition process so that both students and parents will feel welcome and comfortable in the transition from pre-school to public school. Teachers need to stress the importance of the parents continuing role in their childs education.
The objectives for kindergarten transitions are to develop community partnership between the public schools and local pre-school agencies including centers, homes and parents. It is important for the public schools to provide information and assistance to children and families in the kindergarten transition process.
Activity #3:(3 minutes)
Take a few minutes and get people to respond to these questions: (Pause for answers between each question.)
Now look at the picture in the power point. How does it make you feel? How would you feel about coming to this new school?
After a few answers say
Remember, first impressions are often lasting impressions.
Go to the next slide.
15. Kindergarten Transitions Components for Successful Transitions
Enrollment information and dates
Curriculum information
Readiness skills needed
Establish open communication Activity#3 (continued) (3 minutes)
Now take a few minutes and get people to respond to these questions: (Pause for answers between each question.)
Now, look at this picture. How does it make you feel? How would you feel about coming to this new school? What is the difference?
After a few minutes of discussion tell them:
Remember these pictures when you are getting ready for the beginning of school. Be sure to look at the entrance of the school inside and outside. These are all first impressions.
It is important to establish open lines of communication between the schools, day care centers, family day care homes, Head Start Programs, Even Start Programs, ABC Programs, parents and families. For children to arrive the first day of school eager to learn and ready to succeed, it is vital for these agencies to work together to coordinate and align the curriculum to provide a seamless transition from PreK to kindergarten.
It is important for the school to keep the public informed. Schools need to look for a variety of ways to publicize the date and requirements for kindergarten registration so parents can be well-informed and prepared with the necessary information for enrollment.
Activity#3 (continued) (3 minutes)
Now take a few minutes and get people to respond to these questions: (Pause for answers between each question.)
Now, look at this picture. How does it make you feel? How would you feel about coming to this new school? What is the difference?
After a few minutes of discussion tell them:
Remember these pictures when you are getting ready for the beginning of school. Be sure to look at the entrance of the school inside and outside. These are all first impressions.
It is important to establish open lines of communication between the schools, day care centers, family day care homes, Head Start Programs, Even Start Programs, ABC Programs, parents and families. For children to arrive the first day of school eager to learn and ready to succeed, it is vital for these agencies to work together to coordinate and align the curriculum to provide a seamless transition from PreK to kindergarten.
It is important for the school to keep the public informed. Schools need to look for a variety of ways to publicize the date and requirements for kindergarten registration so parents can be well-informed and prepared with the necessary information for enrollment.
16. How Can the School Help Students Transition to Kindergarten? Develop a partnership with parents
Provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere
Establish two-way communication
Respect cultural differences According to Dr. Joyce Epstein, a leading parent researcher from Johns Hopkins University, when parents are actively involved in their childrens education, their children do better in school. After analyzing and correlating 85 rigorous studies, Anne Henderson and Nancy Berla (1994) concluded that the most accurate predictor of a students achievement in school is the extent to which the students family is able to: (1) create a home environment that encourages learning; (2) express high expectations for their childrens achievement and future careers; and (3) become involved in their childrens education at school and in the community. Each of these three activities can look very different in different cultures. Our schools reflect the rich diversity of our country. When schools learn about the values, skills, and dreams of the students families and home cultures, it can begin to recognize the strengths and opportunities that are there. It is important for schools to embrace, be respectful of and responsive to the cultural diversity of their school community.
To foster parent involvement, it is vital that schools provide a warm, welcoming, inclusive environment that encourages parents to be partners in their childrens education. (We can not emphasize this enough!) The schools role begins with learning about families, defining and communicating a variety of ways for families to support the school and their childrens learning, and using two-way meaningful communication to reach out to families on a regular basis.
So how do you make this happen? Lets look at the research
.
According to Dr. Joyce Epstein, a leading parent researcher from Johns Hopkins University, when parents are actively involved in their childrens education, their children do better in school. After analyzing and correlating 85 rigorous studies, Anne Henderson and Nancy Berla (1994) concluded that the most accurate predictor of a students achievement in school is the extent to which the students family is able to: (1) create a home environment that encourages learning; (2) express high expectations for their childrens achievement and future careers; and (3) become involved in their childrens education at school and in the community. Each of these three activities can look very different in different cultures. Our schools reflect the rich diversity of our country. When schools learn about the values, skills, and dreams of the students families and home cultures, it can begin to recognize the strengths and opportunities that are there. It is important for schools to embrace, be respectful of and responsive to the cultural diversity of their school community.
To foster parent involvement, it is vital that schools provide a warm, welcoming, inclusive environment that encourages parents to be partners in their childrens education. (We can not emphasize this enough!) The schools role begins with learning about families, defining and communicating a variety of ways for families to support the school and their childrens learning, and using two-way meaningful communication to reach out to families on a regular basis.
So how do you make this happen? Lets look at the research
.
17. All kinds of parents become involved in their childrens education when the school:
Welcomes their participation with a warm and inviting environment
Honors their participation
Connects with parents through a focus on their child and the educational development of that child
Studies show that:
All kinds of parents become involved in their childrens education when the school:
Welcomes their participation with an warm and inviting environment (You will hear us say this over and over!)
Honors their participation, and
Connects with parents through a focus on their child and the educational development of that child
The way this looks in a school is:
The staff of the school is engaged in caring and trusting relationships that recognize parents as partners in the educational development of their children and it creates a school culture and community where parents feel like a member of the family (Henderson and Mapp, 2002).
Studies show that:
All kinds of parents become involved in their childrens education when the school:
Welcomes their participation with an warm and inviting environment (You will hear us say this over and over!)
Honors their participation, and
Connects with parents through a focus on their child and the educational development of that child
The way this looks in a school is:
The staff of the school is engaged in caring and trusting relationships that recognize parents as partners in the educational development of their children and it creates a school culture and community where parents feel like a member of the family (Henderson and Mapp, 2002).
18. All kinds of parents become involved in their childrens education when the school:
Honors the needs of the parents
Gains the trust of parents and lets them know how they can be involved
Parent involvement programs that are successful in engaging diverse families recognize, respect and address cultural and class differences. Studies also show that:
All kinds of parents become involved in their childrens education when the school:
Honors the needs of the parent
Gains the trust of parents and lets them know how they can be involved
Parent involvement programs that are successful in engaging diverse families recognize, respect and address cultural and class differences (Henderson and Mapp, 2002).
Studies also show that:
All kinds of parents become involved in their childrens education when the school:
Honors the needs of the parent
Gains the trust of parents and lets them know how they can be involved
Parent involvement programs that are successful in engaging diverse families recognize, respect and address cultural and class differences (Henderson and Mapp, 2002).
19. Parents Suggestions for How the School
Can Improve Parent Involvement:
Welcoming environment
Improve school staffs attitudes by educating them on the advantages of teachers and parents working together
Consider the educational level, language, culture, and home situation of parents
Give teachers time to plan and organize parent activities
It is important for schools to work to gain trust of parents and let them know how they can participate. Parents made these suggestions of how to improve parent involvement:
Make parents feel more welcomed
Work to change the attitudes of school staff so that they recognize the advantages of teachers and parents working together
Consider the educational level, language, culture, and home situation of parents
Give teachers time to plan and organize parent activities
Activity #4 (8-10 minutes) (Write both questions on a flip chart) (Hand out big paper)
Find a partner.
Take 3 minutes and talk about this question; What barriers do parents see to being involved in our school? Write all of your answers down.
Now take 3 minutes and answer this question; What can we do at school to address these barriers? Write your responses on your paper.
Take the next 3 minutes to have volunteers share their answers with the group.
When this workshop is over collect all the worksheets and give them to the person who coordinates your schools Parent Involvement plan. Make sure to address some of these barriers in your ASCIP. It is important for schools to work to gain trust of parents and let them know how they can participate. Parents made these suggestions of how to improve parent involvement:
Make parents feel more welcomed
Work to change the attitudes of school staff so that they recognize the advantages of teachers and parents working together
Consider the educational level, language, culture, and home situation of parents
Give teachers time to plan and organize parent activities
Activity #4 (8-10 minutes) (Write both questions on a flip chart) (Hand out big paper)
Find a partner.
Take 3 minutes and talk about this question; What barriers do parents see to being involved in our school? Write all of your answers down.
Now take 3 minutes and answer this question; What can we do at school to address these barriers? Write your responses on your paper.
Take the next 3 minutes to have volunteers share their answers with the group.
When this workshop is over collect all the worksheets and give them to the person who coordinates your schools Parent Involvement plan. Make sure to address some of these barriers in your ASCIP.
20. How Can the School Help Students Transition to Kindergarten? Socially
Welcoming and friendly environment
Nurturing atmosphere
Encouraging play
Building confidence
It is important for the school to provide a welcoming and friendly environment that encourages learning. Schools must provide a nurturing atmosphere that encourages learning through play. Since children learn through observation, teachers need to model nurturing habits.
Teaching children how to play with each other and share is critical to the success of any school program. Schools need to teach children how to solve their own problems and take responsibility for their actions. Teach children how to resolve conflicts peacefully using kind words and not using tantrums to express their feelings. Learning social skills at a very young age will increase the likelihood of success in their school career and in life.
When children feel comfortable with their social skills they are more confident in their school setting. It is important for the school to provide a welcoming and friendly environment that encourages learning. Schools must provide a nurturing atmosphere that encourages learning through play. Since children learn through observation, teachers need to model nurturing habits.
Teaching children how to play with each other and share is critical to the success of any school program. Schools need to teach children how to solve their own problems and take responsibility for their actions. Teach children how to resolve conflicts peacefully using kind words and not using tantrums to express their feelings. Learning social skills at a very young age will increase the likelihood of success in their school career and in life.
When children feel comfortable with their social skills they are more confident in their school setting.
21. How Can the School Help Students Transition to Kindergarten? Academically
Learning experiences
Thinking/problem solving skills
Listening
Following rules
High expectations
Communicating It is important for schools to provide the child with positive learning experiences and a strong educational curriculum.
Thinking skills must be taught in order for students to learn to find solutions for basic problems. Listening skills must be encouraged. It is very important for students to learn to listen, pay attention and follow simple instructions. Being positive role models and teaching children to follow the rules are good examples for the students to emulate.
Schools must have high expectations of each student to learn to the best of their abilities and developmental skills. Students need to recognize letters, colors, shapes, and numbers, etc. Schools must address the individual needs of each student which may require an individual education plan under the guidance of the Special Services Coordinator of each school district.
In order to assist parents in getting their children ready for kindergarten good communication must begin well in advance of the first day of school.
Take a few minutes and discuss as a whole group -- What activities can the school do to help parents prepare their children for the first day of school? It is important for schools to provide the child with positive learning experiences and a strong educational curriculum.
Thinking skills must be taught in order for students to learn to find solutions for basic problems. Listening skills must be encouraged. It is very important for students to learn to listen, pay attention and follow simple instructions. Being positive role models and teaching children to follow the rules are good examples for the students to emulate.
Schools must have high expectations of each student to learn to the best of their abilities and developmental skills. Students need to recognize letters, colors, shapes, and numbers, etc. Schools must address the individual needs of each student which may require an individual education plan under the guidance of the Special Services Coordinator of each school district.
In order to assist parents in getting their children ready for kindergarten good communication must begin well in advance of the first day of school.
Take a few minutes and discuss as a whole group -- What activities can the school do to help parents prepare their children for the first day of school?
22. How Can the School Help Students Transition to Kindergarten? Emotionally
Provide a warm and caring atmosphere
Safe and secure environment Schools must be a warm positive learning environment where children feel safe and secure. The school should be a happy, healthy community that encourages learning.
Since children are sensitive to emotions and feelings, school personnel should make every effort to keep personal and school problems out of the classroom. Schools must be a warm positive learning environment where children feel safe and secure. The school should be a happy, healthy community that encourages learning.
Since children are sensitive to emotions and feelings, school personnel should make every effort to keep personal and school problems out of the classroom.
23. How Can the School Help Students Transition to Kindergarten? Physically
Provide ample play time
Movement
Gross motor skills
Fine motor skills Schools need to provide students with developmentally appropriate opportunities to improve their gross and fine motor skills.
It is important for teachers to be knowledgeable about the development of large muscle activity and body movement. Ample play time to run, jump, and skip will improve students physical well-being and will help develop their gross motor skills.
Students arrive in kindergarten with varying abilities. Fun developmentally appropriate activities, such as manipulating small objects, cutting, copying, holding pencils, or forming letters and numerals will help them develop fine motor skills.
Schools need to provide students with developmentally appropriate opportunities to improve their gross and fine motor skills.
It is important for teachers to be knowledgeable about the development of large muscle activity and body movement. Ample play time to run, jump, and skip will improve students physical well-being and will help develop their gross motor skills.
Students arrive in kindergarten with varying abilities. Fun developmentally appropriate activities, such as manipulating small objects, cutting, copying, holding pencils, or forming letters and numerals will help them develop fine motor skills.
24. How Can Schools Help Students and Parents Transition to Kindergarten? What are some of the causes of stress for new students that you see in your school?
What are some of the causes of stress for parents of students?
What can the school do to address these issues?
What can the school do to involve parents in identifying and addressing these issues? Activity#5: (25- minutes)
Ask participants to pair up with a different partner or work in groups of 3-4 (depending on the size of the group). Pass out big paper and ask participants to write down the answers to each question.
Ask them to discuss this question, What are some of the causes of stress for new students that you often see in your school? Give them 2-3 minutes.
Now ask them to answer: What are some of the causes of stress for parents of students? (3-5 minutes)
Now ask them, What can the school do to help address these issues? (3-5 minutes)
What can the school do to involve parents in identifying and addressing these issues? Take 3-5 minutes to discuss.
Spend about 3-5 minutes having the groups report out on the answers to question number 4.
(Advise participants to save the paper and use the information when developing their parent involvement plan or ASCIP.)
Remind them that people will support what they help create.
One way teachers can assist parents is by helping them understand what support they can give their student during the transition to kindergarten. We are going to spend a little time now giving you information for you to share with your parents. Parts of this power point could even be used as the beginning of a short workshop for parents. Activity#5: (25- minutes)
Ask participants to pair up with a different partner or work in groups of 3-4 (depending on the size of the group). Pass out big paper and ask participants to write down the answers to each question.
Ask them to discuss this question, What are some of the causes of stress for new students that you often see in your school? Give them 2-3 minutes.
Now ask them to answer: What are some of the causes of stress for parents of students? (3-5 minutes)
Now ask them, What can the school do to help address these issues? (3-5 minutes)
What can the school do to involve parents in identifying and addressing these issues? Take 3-5 minutes to discuss.
Spend about 3-5 minutes having the groups report out on the answers to question number 4.
(Advise participants to save the paper and use the information when developing their parent involvement plan or ASCIP.)
Remind them that people will support what they help create.
One way teachers can assist parents is by helping them understand what support they can give their student during the transition to kindergarten. We are going to spend a little time now giving you information for you to share with your parents. Parts of this power point could even be used as the beginning of a short workshop for parents.
25. How Can the Parent Help the Student Transition to Kindergarten? Socially
Encourage
Listening
Taking turns
Cooperation
Communication skills
Sharing
Following directions
Problem solving Teachers can help parents understand that a learning attitude is encouraged by teaching your child listening skills and how to take turns and to share. Cooperation, sharing, and good communications are key to the success of their child socially.
Advise parents to motivate and inspire their child to do their very best by giving lots of encouragement and praise. Parents need to teach their child to be persistent and complete a project. Encourage them to teach their child to care about others and how they feel. Do activities at home like caring for a neighbor or volunteering to help others. Children need to develop empathy skills.
Parents need to be a positive role model for their child by treating them with love and respect. Parents need to encourage their child to solve his or her own problems, allow him/her to make safe mistakes without being critical, and help their child think through what could have been done differently. Teachers can help parents understand that a learning attitude is encouraged by teaching your child listening skills and how to take turns and to share. Cooperation, sharing, and good communications are key to the success of their child socially.
Advise parents to motivate and inspire their child to do their very best by giving lots of encouragement and praise. Parents need to teach their child to be persistent and complete a project. Encourage them to teach their child to care about others and how they feel. Do activities at home like caring for a neighbor or volunteering to help others. Children need to develop empathy skills.
Parents need to be a positive role model for their child by treating them with love and respect. Parents need to encourage their child to solve his or her own problems, allow him/her to make safe mistakes without being critical, and help their child think through what could have been done differently.
26. How Can the Parent Help the Student Transition to Kindergarten? Academically
Read to your child
Play learning games
Listen and retell stories
Encourage curiosity
Answer questions
Identify beginning sounds and rhyming words
Colors shapes counting cutting - copy Parents need to read to their child often and encourage their child to read to them. Parents can play learning games, ask what if questions, and tell me about
type activities. They can identify ideas and information contained in a book. Parents need to know to teach their child that reading in a book is front to back, and show them how to hold a book.
Parents need to teach their child the difference between a letter, a word, and or sentence, how to copy and cut patterns, and how to count. Remind parents that color and shape identification can begin at a very young age. Parents need to read to their child often and encourage their child to read to them. Parents can play learning games, ask what if questions, and tell me about
type activities. They can identify ideas and information contained in a book. Parents need to know to teach their child that reading in a book is front to back, and show them how to hold a book.
Parents need to teach their child the difference between a letter, a word, and or sentence, how to copy and cut patterns, and how to count. Remind parents that color and shape identification can begin at a very young age.
27. How Can the Parent Help the Student Transition to Kindergarten? Emotionally
Express feelings
Empathy
Conflict resolution skills
Parents need to teach their children how to express their feelings of happiness, joy, sadness, etc. Teach empathy skills to help them learn how others feel, and what sad or happy moments are for other children. For example, when one child hits another child or bites, ask the child how they think that makes the other child feel and discuss with them the hurt and pain that has occurred to the other child.
When possible encourage parents to allow children to resolve conflicts on their own and teach them how to settle differences among themselves. Logical consequences should occur for each misbehavior when possible. Parents need to teach their children how to express their feelings of happiness, joy, sadness, etc. Teach empathy skills to help them learn how others feel, and what sad or happy moments are for other children. For example, when one child hits another child or bites, ask the child how they think that makes the other child feel and discuss with them the hurt and pain that has occurred to the other child.
When possible encourage parents to allow children to resolve conflicts on their own and teach them how to settle differences among themselves. Logical consequences should occur for each misbehavior when possible.
28. How Can the Parent Help the Student Transition to Kindergarten? Physically
Gross motor skills
Body parts (arms, legs, eyes, nose, etc.)
Walking running skipping hopping
Throwing kicking catching
Body movements to the left and right
Fine motor skills
Manipulating small objects
Cutting and copying
Help parents understand the importance of teaching children to identify their body parts. When children are young, play games with them pointing out their eyes, nose, ears, etc.
They need to play with their children, and teach them how to walk, run, skip, hop, and jump. Teach them how to throw, kick, and catch a ball. Children need to know body movements from left to right, for example, play the Hokey Pokey game.
Parents need to be aware of small muscle activities which could include teaching their child how to hold a pencil and crayon, draw, copy, and cut with scissors. Parents need to be encouraged to take advantage of every opportunity to work with their child involving these activities. Help parents understand the importance of teaching children to identify their body parts. When children are young, play games with them pointing out their eyes, nose, ears, etc.
They need to play with their children, and teach them how to walk, run, skip, hop, and jump. Teach them how to throw, kick, and catch a ball. Children need to know body movements from left to right, for example, play the Hokey Pokey game.
Parents need to be aware of small muscle activities which could include teaching their child how to hold a pencil and crayon, draw, copy, and cut with scissors. Parents need to be encouraged to take advantage of every opportunity to work with their child involving these activities.
29. Kindergarten Transition Activities for Parents Tips to make the first day easier:
Prepare your child
Be excited about your childs first day
Start school routine early
Prepare the night before
Prepare a healthy breakfast for your child
Arrive at school on time
Leave your child cheerfully
Be a good role model Parents can prepare their child to enter school by teaching him or her many of the things that have been described earlier in this workshop. Be sure that parents have a copy of the school calendar that is published by the Arkansas Division of Child Care and Early Childhood giving many examples and ideas to help prepare young children to enter Kindergarten.
Encourage parents to be excited and enthusiastic about their childs first day in Kindergarten. Begin their school routine at least one week prior to the beginning of the school year by setting a bedtime and sticking to it. Limit TV viewing time. Allow plenty of time for getting ready for school and provide a nutritious breakfast before leaving for school.
Transportation should be addressed with the school and the child as to who will drive the child to and from school. If a child is planning to ride the bus, he or she should be knowledgeable about the bus stop location and the arrival and departure time. Parents need to plan for who will care for their child after school is dismissed or if school is dismissed early? If a child will be walking, parents need to find out who will supervise the cross walk.
On the first day of school parents need to be happy and cheerful about their child entering Kindergarten. Tell parents to say their good bye and tell their child when and where they will see them again. Tell parents not to dawdle, be firm and positive. Then, tell parents that as soon as they leave the school, they can cry like a baby! Parents can prepare their child to enter school by teaching him or her many of the things that have been described earlier in this workshop. Be sure that parents have a copy of the school calendar that is published by the Arkansas Division of Child Care and Early Childhood giving many examples and ideas to help prepare young children to enter Kindergarten.
Encourage parents to be excited and enthusiastic about their childs first day in Kindergarten. Begin their school routine at least one week prior to the beginning of the school year by setting a bedtime and sticking to it. Limit TV viewing time. Allow plenty of time for getting ready for school and provide a nutritious breakfast before leaving for school.
Transportation should be addressed with the school and the child as to who will drive the child to and from school. If a child is planning to ride the bus, he or she should be knowledgeable about the bus stop location and the arrival and departure time. Parents need to plan for who will care for their child after school is dismissed or if school is dismissed early? If a child will be walking, parents need to find out who will supervise the cross walk.
On the first day of school parents need to be happy and cheerful about their child entering Kindergarten. Tell parents to say their good bye and tell their child when and where they will see them again. Tell parents not to dawdle, be firm and positive. Then, tell parents that as soon as they leave the school, they can cry like a baby!
30. Kindergarten Activities and Responsibilities for the Schools Spring Kindergarten Registration
Invite pre-schools and parents to visit
Provide warm and welcoming atmosphere
Review entrance requirements
Enrollment procedures
Immunization requirements
Physical exams required During early spring each school year all public schools need to provide a Kindergarten registration date, inviting all parents and preschoolers to visit the school. Schools need to provide a warm, positive learning environment with a welcoming attitude. Each school should provide an overview of any entrance requirements, including the enrollment process, immunizations required and the physical exams that may be administered.
Kindergarten registration is usually hosted in April of each year, and each school is required to publish this registration date.During early spring each school year all public schools need to provide a Kindergarten registration date, inviting all parents and preschoolers to visit the school. Schools need to provide a warm, positive learning environment with a welcoming attitude. Each school should provide an overview of any entrance requirements, including the enrollment process, immunizations required and the physical exams that may be administered.
Kindergarten registration is usually hosted in April of each year, and each school is required to publish this registration date.
31. Kindergarten Activities and Responsibilities Information on:
No Child Left Behind
Title I Entitlements
ESL Requirements
Special needs
Field trips
Sample enrollment packet
Kindergarten open house
Parents need to be informed regarding field trip procedures and any forms that must be signed. This is a great opportunity to let parents know your need for parent volunteers to help supervise any activities outside the school.
Each school needs to provide each parent with an enrollment packet.
Kindergarten Open House needs to be held in the late spring.
Parents need to be informed regarding field trip procedures and any forms that must be signed. This is a great opportunity to let parents know your need for parent volunteers to help supervise any activities outside the school.
Each school needs to provide each parent with an enrollment packet.
Kindergarten Open House needs to be held in the late spring.
32. Kindergarten Activities Responsibilities Kindergarten screening
Report card
Web page
School calendar
Report card date to the public
Kindergarten supply list An explanation needs to be given to each parent regarding the school kindergarten screening process.
Each school needs to review the report card instrument with detailed explanation. A school calendar should be made available to each parent which should include information on all upcoming events.
Each school should advise the parents as to date and location of the report to the public that is held in the fall of each school year. This report details the success and areas of needed improvement of each local school.
In August each school offers a supply list for parents to purchase for each child prior to entering the school system. Usually the school has a printed copy available to all parents and on the schools website. Wal-mart and many businesses offer a school supply list.An explanation needs to be given to each parent regarding the school kindergarten screening process.
Each school needs to review the report card instrument with detailed explanation. A school calendar should be made available to each parent which should include information on all upcoming events.
Each school should advise the parents as to date and location of the report to the public that is held in the fall of each school year. This report details the success and areas of needed improvement of each local school.
In August each school offers a supply list for parents to purchase for each child prior to entering the school system. Usually the school has a printed copy available to all parents and on the schools website. Wal-mart and many businesses offer a school supply list.
33. Kindergarten Activities and Responsibilities Teachers name
Principals name
Location of school
Location of classroom
Hours of operation
Transportation issues
Student handbook for parents
Parents need to be provided with the name and location of the school that their child will be attending, including the name of the teachers and principal. Additionally, parents need to be informed about school hours and classroom locations, as well as transportation issues. Do the parents plan on their child walking to school? Will they be bus riders? If they are riding the bus, what is the number of their bus? Where will the bus pick up the child, and at what times? Include the rules for riding on the bus.
Each school needs to provide each parent with a copy of the school handbook.
Parents need to be provided with the name and location of the school that their child will be attending, including the name of the teachers and principal. Additionally, parents need to be informed about school hours and classroom locations, as well as transportation issues. Do the parents plan on their child walking to school? Will they be bus riders? If they are riding the bus, what is the number of their bus? Where will the bus pick up the child, and at what times? Include the rules for riding on the bus.
Each school needs to provide each parent with a copy of the school handbook.
34. Kindergarten Activities and Responsibilities Tour of the school
Birth certificate requirement
Birth certificate application
Sample classroom schedule
Refrigerator curriculum
Kindergarten standards
We would encourage each school to provide each parent and child with a tour of the school that the child will be attending.
Parents should be informed of the schools need for a copy of their childs birth certificate.
Each school needs to provide a sample of the childs classroom schedule.
Each parent should be given a copy of the curriculum and Kindergarten standards.
With all of the preparation finished, the school, parent and student should begin the year with excitement!
We would encourage each school to provide each parent and child with a tour of the school that the child will be attending.
Parents should be informed of the schools need for a copy of their childs birth certificate.
Each school needs to provide a sample of the childs classroom schedule.
Each parent should be given a copy of the curriculum and Kindergarten standards.
With all of the preparation finished, the school, parent and student should begin the year with excitement!
35. References
Cooper, C. (1999). Beyond the bake sale: How parent involvement makes a difference. Learning Point, 1(3), 4-8.
Henderson, A., & Berla, N. (Eds.). (1994). A new generation of evidence: The family is critical to student achievement. Washington, DC: National Committee for Citizens in Education, Center for Law and Education.
Henderson, A & Mapp, K.L. (Eds.), (2002), A New Wave of Evidence: The Impact of School, Family, and Community Connections on Student Achievement. Austin, TX: National Center for Family and Community Connections with Schools, Southwest Educational Development Laboratory.
Cotton, K. (2001). New small learning communities: Findings from recent literature. Portland, OR: Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory.
How To Effectively Communicate with Your Childs School, Donald A. Boyd, Ph.D., www.parenting-ed.org
National Standards for Parent/Family Involvement Programs, National PTA, Revised 2004, ISBN 1-932127-27-5, www.pta.org
School, Family and Community Partnerships, Joyce L. Epstein and Company, Corwin Press, Inc., ISBN 0-7619-7665-5, www.corwinpress.com
SEDL Helps Parents Prepare for Parent-Teacher Conferences, Southwest Educational Development Laboratory, www.sedl.org/connections
References
Cooper, C. (1999). Beyond the bake sale: How parent involvement makes a difference. Learning Point, 1(3), 4-8.
Henderson, A., & Berla, N. (Eds.). (1994). A new generation of evidence: The family is critical to student achievement. Washington, DC: National Committee for Citizens in Education, Center for Law and Education.
Henderson, A & Mapp, K.L. (Eds.), (2002), A New Wave of Evidence: The Impact of School, Family, and Community Connections on Student Achievement. Austin, TX: National Center for Family and Community Connections with Schools, Southwest Educational Development Laboratory.
Cotton, K. (2001). New small learning communities: Findings from recent literature. Portland, OR: Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory.
How To Effectively Communicate with Your Childs School, Donald A. Boyd, Ph.D., www.parenting-ed.org
National Standards for Parent/Family Involvement Programs, National PTA, Revised 2004, ISBN 1-932127-27-5, www.pta.org
School, Family and Community Partnerships, Joyce L. Epstein and Company, Corwin Press, Inc., ISBN 0-7619-7665-5, www.corwinpress.com
SEDL Helps Parents Prepare for Parent-Teacher Conferences, Southwest Educational Development Laboratory, www.sedl.org/connections
