Transition to Kindergarten

Transition refers to the totality of experiences and opportunities a child encounters in moving from one program or setting to another. Opportunities and experiences that familiarize children and families with new settings, expectations, and relationships can help make connections that ease adjustments. 

When transitions are effective, they provide the support children need to make these adjustments. When children make successful transitions, they: 

• Enjoy school and look forward to going
• Show steady growth in academic and social skills
• Have families who are more actively engaged in their learning (Howard, 2010) 

Transition to Kindergarten Resources

Manatee County’s Coordinated Screening and Early Identification Referral Process (Birth - 36 Months & 36 Months - 5 Years)

In Manatee County, we are dedicated to ensuring that every child is prepared for kindergarten and receives the support needed for success. Achieving this goal requires a well-coordinated early intervention system that identifies and addresses developmental needs as early as possible. This collaborative effort involves various agencies working together with families. Below is an outline of the process, including the roles of agencies, families, child care centers, and medical professionals. This process benefits all families with young children, particularly those who may require additional support.

Navigating the Referral Process (English)
Navigating the Referral Process (Spanish)

Tips for the Approaching School Year & Beyond

Children with families involved in school are more likely to earn higher grades, graduate from high school, develop self-confidence, and have better classroom and social behavior. Every day is an opportunity to prepare your child for school success, and these efforts should start before kindergarten and continue throughout the school year. The tips below, provided by the Early Learning Taskforce of Manatee County, can help provide a smooth transition to kindergarten process.

Two Weeks Before School Starts

1. Talk with your child about what will happen during the school day and about making new friends in school. Contact your child's school to learn more about what a day in kindergarten looks like.
2. Establish an evening "going to bed" routine and a morning "getting ready for school" routine with your child.
3. If your child will bring a lunch, practice opening, and closing food storage containers and bags. If your child will buy lunch, practice selecting options and carrying a tray.
4. Talk with the school nurse and your child's teacher if your child has any allergies or special needs.
5. Find and follow your child's school and PTO on social media.

One Week Before School Starts

1. Plan to attend a back-to-school event to learn more about your child's school and the kindergarten program and meet your child's teacher.
2. Practice walking the route from the car or bus circle to the classroom or morning gathering area with your child before school starts to develop confidence in new routines.
3. Ensure your child can clearly state their full name, grade, family member names, and teacher's name.
4. Help your child lay out their clothes and backpack for the following day. Create a checklist of tasks to be done in the morning before school. Practice independently completing tasks.

First Day of School

1. Allow plenty of time to get ready for school - a calm morning at home will help create a confident first school day.
2. If you are taking your child to school, leave early to allow time to find parking and navigate the school campus.
3. Make sure your child and the child's teacher know how your child will be going home. Return all requested documents to the kindergarten teacher.
4. Have fun and celebrate your child’s first day of kindergarten!

Throughout the Year Every Year             

1. Continue good attendance habits by making sure your child attends school every day they are healthy.
2. Set aside time after school each day to talk with your child about the day.
3. Read and respond to everything the school sends home!
4. Speak positively about the school and teacher in front of your child.
5. Get involved in your child's education by joining the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) or School Advisory Committee (SAC); consider volunteering in the classroom or donating items for special events, Chat with your child's teacher, and offer to be a guest reader or to support monthly projects in the classroom.
   
   

Transition to Kindergarten Tips (English)
Transition to Kindergarten Tips (Spanish)