Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/supporting-successful-transitions-to-kindergarten-for-children-with-special-needs/5021653/
Moving up to kindergarten means getting to know new teachers, places, activities, and expectations �" all at once. In contrast to most preschools, “developmentally appropriate practice is less common in kindergarten, and primary teachers face many constraints and pressures that teachers of younger children are not yet experiencing in the same intensity [although preschool appears to be next in line for ‘pushdown’ curriculum]” (Jones, Evans, & Rencken, 2001). For a child with special needs �" developmental delays, physical or sensory challenges, communication challenges, social or behavioral differences, or significant health concerns �" the transition process becomes much more complex. Fortunately, early educators are in a unique position to contribute to a smoother transition process by becoming more informed, building relationships, supporting the family, following a clear transition timeline, collaborating with the receiving school, and above all, supporting each child to feel safe, welcome, and competent in the new environment. Many of these ideas can be implemented over time and will benefit all children in your program.Children with Special Needs Face Unique Transition Challenges
Some transition challenges may stem from meeting the unique characteristics and needs of the child, while
others relate to the logistics and impact of changing programs and services or ...