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Children at primary school, grade 1

Moving into a new environment is a time of change and adaptation for children, their families as well as for the schools. The child shifts from a predominantly play-based environment to more organized and structured learning. He/she has to form new relationships and to take on new responsibilities.

Each child progresses and develops in his/her own unique way and responds differently to change. Transition from kindergarten to primary school is a deciding period during which children need to get significant support for the coming changes. School leaders, teachers and parents can all play a crucial role in facilitating a smooth shift, by assisting the child until he/she is fully accommodated in the new learning context. (Siraj-Blatchford et al, 2002).
 
The manual provides Early Childhood Education and Primary school leaders with knowledge and skills in coping with changes. This is the starting point for a school leader in making, implementing, monitoring and evaluating plans for supporting children during their transition. With a particular focus on bridging between pre-school and primary school and between schools and the community and family, the manual is designed for a two-day training for Early Childhood Education and Primary school leaders together. It contains specific examples from disadvantaged areas to illustrate good practices that can be done by a school leader.