Education Bridges

The transition from kindergarten to primary school is an important period for children and their future academic progress. This transition depends on many different factors, with children and parents needing help to cope. In this context, the importance of the role of teachers is highlighted, as they have the ability to prepare both the child and their family for the transition from kindergarten to primary school by using specific practices. This book includes research on the views of teachers in Greece regarding the importance of transition practices, the identification of factors that influence it, and the practices they consider to be most effective and widespread. The sample consisted of 1,602 teachers (kindergarten teachers, teachers, and elementary school principals), and the results showed that children's skills (social, behavioral, communication) are very important for a smooth transition. The importance of a transition program, ongoing training, and continuity in learning methods and environments is recognized. The most appropriate transition practices involve joint kindergarten-primary school activities, as well as exchanges of visits and experiences.