Family and Community Partnerships

Transition Services

     Assisting parents in understanding what to expect in a new environment is an important role of Head Start and Early Head Start. Staff implement strategies to facilitate effective and successful transitions for children.

     Transitions include moving from Early Head Start prenatal services to a child development program option such as center-based EHS childcare or home-based services; moving from a birth-to-three setting such as Early Head Start to Head Start or other preschool program; and finally, moving from Head Start to kindergarten. Transition is much more than simply changing buildings or settings. It means learning a new set of rules and behavior as well as getting to know a new peer group and teacher.

• Early Head Start into Head Start:
  A written transition plan is developed and implemented six months prior to the child’s third birthday.

• Head Start into Kindergarten:
  Transition activities begin in early spring. Activities for parents may include education about school readiness and how to help their child adapt to changes. Child activities include a transition portfolio and a visit to the new setting.

Introduction | Family Partnerships | Parent Involvement
Transition Services | Community Partnerships