Children experience many transitions, including from home to an early care and education setting, between age groups or program settings, and from preschool to kindergarten. Supporting these transitions for children, families, and staff is critically important because even positive change can be challenging. How the foundation for positive transitions is laid across all levels of the system to support children, families, and staff through transitions can have far-reaching effects on children’s well-being and academic success. Program staff consider the long-term process of building and maintaining the capacity to support children and families at all levels. They also look at ways to improve how they connect and communicate within systems during transitions.
Explore the key parts of successful kindergarten transitions. Learn how staff and elementary school leaders can use information, relationships, and alignment to support smooth transitions for Head Start children.
In this episode of Teacher Time, learn more about transitions between programs as well as transitions that happen throughout the day in an infant/toddler program.
Explore strategies to support transitions from Early Head Start up to kindergarten. Discover how professional development and relationships between Head Start programs and receiving schools support the process.
View this video to learn how Head Start programs can partner with receiving elementary schools to provide stability and consistency for children and families transitioning to kindergarten.
Making a transition to a new care and learning setting can have an impact on families. Explore ways to support and help families feel secure as they get ready to make the move to a new setting.
Read these ideas for supporting the many kinds of transitions children and adults experience in Early Head Start.
Read the requirements for supporting children's transition out of the Head Start program when the family leaves the service area, moves to another early education program, or is engaged in migrant agricultural work.
For children transitioning out of Head Start Preschool, programs are required to collaborate with families and local education agencies and develop strategies to ensure a successful transition to kindergarten.
For children transitioning out of Early Head Start, programs are required to develop timelines and collaborate with families and Head Start Preschool staff to ensure the most appropriate placement and service.
Learn ways to help children use positive behaviors during classroom transitions..