Transitioning

Transitioning from home to a Head Start program, and between Head Start programs, is a very important part of a child’s life. Head Start and Early Head Start believe that transitions are easiest for families when they have all of the appropriate information they need and are involved in the process.

Transition to a Program from Home

Before the first day of school, families and children meet staff at a home visit and/or a visit to the program. This gives the staff an opportunity to learn more about children and their families, in order to best plan for a successful Head Start and Early Head Start experience. It also allows children to meet their new teacher in a familiar environment.

Families participate in an orientation prior to the child’s first day in the classroom. They learn about what to expect from their child’s program and about parent involvement opportunities.

In the beginning of the school year, children are “phased” into Head Start and Early Head Start by attending at least one shorter day, generally with a smaller group of children than their regular class size. This allows children to feel more comfortable before they attend a full day. When children join a classroom that is already in session, they attend the class on a schedule of shorter days until they are comfortable in the new classroom.

Transition from Early Head Start to Head Start

Planning for a toddler to move from an Early Head Start classroom to a Head Start classroom begins six months before the child turns three years old. Careful planning between both programs, and visits by the parent and child to the new Head Start classroom, are set up during this transition planning process. By the time children turn three, and are ready for the new classroom environment, parents already understand the structure of the new -- and larger -- classroom, and teachers are prepared to create the correct curriculum for each child.

Transition into Kindergarten

Head Start recognizes the importance of a smooth transition into the Boston Public Schools or any other kindergarten. Head start helps in the following ways:

Local programs host onsite kindergarten registration whenever possible. These sessions are sensitive to the language needs of participating Head Start families.

Family Case Managers work with families to help them prepare for school registration.

Parents are given an activity calendar and books to help children prepare for kindergarten.

Teachers and children talk about the kindergarten experience. They may visit the local public school. In some instances, public school teachers visit the Head Start classroom.

The End of the Year or Going to another Program

Teachers help children say goodbye to their friends. They let children know how special they are and how wonderful it was to have them in their class. Children often take artwork or photographs to help them remember their Head Start and Early Head Start experience.

Each program plans a celebration for children and families at the end of the year.