| The transition to kindergarten involves connections between many different spheres including individual children, families, schools and communities. In order to facilitate a successful transition, the connections between the spheres must be fostered (Rimm-Kaufman & Pianta, under review). To begin with individual children, if a child possesses certain characteristics and experiences, the transition into elementary school is likely to be easier. Social skills, including play behavior, peer group entry strategies and communication skills, have been found to be important. The development of such skills can be facilitated by interactions with peers before school entry, either through parents’ creation of chances for their children to interact with other children or through preschool experience (Maxwell & Eller, 1994). Preschool can also have an impact on cognitive development (see section on early child care and education). Entwisle (1995) suggests that cognitive gains can aid in the transition to school by helping children be placed in higher ability groups and creating greater teacher expectations, setting children on the track for continued success. |
