Starting Kindergarten With A Disability

Starting kindergarten is an exciting time for a preschooler and her parents. For preschoolers with a special need; starting kindergarten requires some additional planning. Kindergarten requirements may need to be modified for some preschoolers. Parents must include the teacher, special service providers, and the school district in their preschooler's transition to kindergarten. A team approach is necessary to make a successful transition.

What school should my preschooler attend?

Parents of any preschooler make the decision where to send him to school. If a preschooler has a special need, a parent will probably need to consider a few additional items than usual. Accessibility, school policies, and availability of services will all be items to consider. To clarify any questions, a parent should prepare a list of their questions and concerns before speaking to the school principal. Most schools have programs in place to serve children with special needs. An initial visit to a school without the preschooler present will provide the parent a feel for whether or not it is a good placement for their child. Later, the preschooler can join the parent on a visit.

When does transition begin?

Once a parent makes the decision on a school, transition begins. Communication with school staff, early intervention staff, and service providers will make the transition easier for all parties. Parents should verify that early intervention staff currently providing services are communicating with staff at the kindergarten your preschooler will attend. A team meeting including parents, classroom staff, service providers and possibly a disabilities advocate should be part of the process. If possible, attend any school sponsored kindergarten orientation events. A kindergartner with a special need is still a kindergartner first, so a parent will need to know school procedures and policies. A preschooler will benefit from the opportunity to see the school and meet teachers, other students and staff members. Additional visits may be necessary depending on the needs of the preschooler.

How does early intervention differ from kindergarten?

Most early intervention programs focus on a preschooler's strengths along with family strengths. Developing self-help skills is important in early intervention. Once a child enters kindergarten, the focus will shift from the family to the preschooler. Academic skills will generally be the focus. Services will not necessarily be delivered individually, but maybe delivered as part of a group of students. The teacher and special education staff will assist the parents in developing appropriate goals for the individual education plan which will be developed. Individualizing each child's program to ensure educational success is the focus of the team.

How do I ensure I receive important information on my preschooler's transition?

Attend all events and orientations for parents at your child's school. These events provide opportunities to meet school administrators, teachers, and other parents. Face to face contact will ensure you do not miss out on important information. If you have not been introduced to the school principal or other important staff, now is the time to make their introduction. When attending any meetings involving your child's special education team, write down names and numbers to guarantee you will be able to reach them with questions. Depending on your child's disability and treatment needs; the size of this team will vary. The importance of the team to your child's success does not change with size, so get to know team members.

The parent is a key player in the transition of preschoolers with a disability. Because of this fact, much of the work in kindergarten transition falls to the parent. Selecting an appropriate program, understanding and starting the process of transition is up to the parent. Maintaining communication between all parties is critical for your preschooler to experience a successful transition to kindergarten.