A Critical Investigation of Policy, Research, and Programs that Aim to Support Children’s Transition to Kindergarten in Quebec
Abstract
This article critically examines Quebec policy and programs related to children’s transition to kindergarten, with a particular focus on “hard to reach” families (Hong, 2009; Mapp et Hong, 2010): those that are low-income, have limited levels of formal education, are part of racialized groups, speak a mother tongue other than English or French, and/or are recent immigrants. A conceptual analysis of parent pedagogicalization (Popkewitz, 2003) and of the difference between the transition to school and school readiness is followed by a review of the literature on children from “hard to reach” families beginning school. Five themes are identified in the literature: socio-demographic characteristics and academic achievement, the neighbourhood environment, transition practices, parent perspectives, and classroom processes. The article concludes with implications for policy, practice, and further research in order to support children’s transition to kindergarten from a strength-based, as opposed to a deficit-oriented, perspective (Carr, 2001; Dahlberg, Moss & Pence, 2007; Swadener & Lubeck, 1995).Downloads
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Copyright (c) 2012 Joanne S. Lehrer
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