Studies show that educational achievement gaps already exist at Kindergarten entry.  Children from low-income families are more likely to start school with limited language skills, health problems and social and emotional problems that interfere with learning.  The larger the gap at school entry, the harder it is to close.

Schools can improve the readiness of young children by making connections with local child care providers and preschools by creating policies that ensure smooth transitions to kindergarten.  Schools must be ready to address the diverse needs of the children and families in their community and be committed to the success of every child. 

 






 

Reading- Young Children's Achievement and Classroom Experiences (July 2003); The National Center for Education Statistics.

 

Click here to read this publication.

 

Building a Bridge from Birth to School: Improving Developmental and Behavioral Health Services for Young Children (May 2003); The Commonwealth Fund.

 

Click here to read this publication.

 

The National Evaluation of Early Head Start: Early Head Start Works (February 2003); Zero to Three Policy Center.

 

Click here to for more information.

 

Towards the ABC's, Building a Healthy Social and Emotional Foundation for Learning and Living; The Ounce of Prevention Fund.

 

Click here to read this publication.

 

Starting Smart, How Early Experiences Affect Brain Development; The Ounce of Prevention Fund.

 

Click here to read this publication.

 
  

       

© 2005, School Readiness Indicators Initiative
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The School Readiness Indicators Initiative is supported by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Ford Foundation.
The 17-state initiative is managed by Rhode Island KIDS COUNT