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What is the ASQ?
The ASQ is a screening tool used to better understand a child's developmental strengths and needs as compared to other typically developing children their age. It relies on parent-interview to report observations of their child's skills.
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When should we expect to complete the ASQ?
The ASQ may be given by a doctor during a well-child checkup, a preschool teacher, an early intervention provider such as PAT or the elementary kindergarten team. This tool is used anywhere from birth to 72 months of age.
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Why complete the ASQ?
Use of the ASQ can help parents and teachers provide opportunities to target areas of need or extend areas of strength. It can also identify children who may benefit from early intervention services.
The Lawrence Kindergarten Transition Team was formed in November 2020 through an All In For Kansas Kids Kindergarten Readiness Quality Subgrant. Our vision is that, through equitable, inclusive, and aligned community programs and school system support, all scholars and families are ready and prepared for a successful transition into kindergarten.
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Here you will find information to support you and your child as you begin the transition into kindergarten.
What an exciting milestone!
What to expect from the Pre-Kindergarten experience?
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Skills Development
In preparation for kindergarten, children in a Pre-K classroom will focus on skills that will support a successful transition to kindergarten including:
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Social-emotional skills
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Self-help skills
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Academic skills
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Fine and gross motor skills
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Assessment
Your child's teacher will assess your child's development using the Ages & Stages Questionnaire or other assessment tool as determined by their preschool program to learn more about their strengths and areas in which they might need some support.
Information Sharing
Your local school district will typically announce orientation dates for fall entry into kindergarten in the early spring with orientation happening at your local elementary school before the end of the spring semester. Check your school district's website for more information. This is an important opportunity to gather information, ask questions and begin building that Pre-K to kindergarten bridge for your child.
What will we need to enroll our child in kindergarten with the local school district?
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Proof of residency
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Certified copy of birth certificate
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Immunization record
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Health assessment completed by physician within one calendar year of start date
What can we do as parents to help prepare our child for the transition to kindergarten?
Read with your child! Here are a few stories about the kindergarten transition.
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The Night Before Kindergarten
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The Pigeon Has To Go To School
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How Do Dinosaurs Go To School
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The King of Kindergarten
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All Are Welcome
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Practice self-help skills!
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Opening lunch boxes and containers
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Button/zippers/snaps especially for when the weather gets cold
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Phase out naptime
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Bathroom, handwashing, blowing their own nose
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Participate in activities!
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Kindergarten Orientation
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Summer playground playdates at your local school
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Complete the summer library reading challenge
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"Kindergarten Camp" at local school or district
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Parents as Teachers playgroups (ages birth - 5)
Ready. Set. Kindergarten
What else should we be thinking about?
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Daily School Schedule
Not all elementary schools within a district have the same schedule. Some may start later and release later in the day. Check with your local school for their specific times.
Early Release Days
Some school districts, such as USD 497 Lawrence Public Schools, may have a regular early release day each week to allow for teacher collaboration. USD 497 elementary schools release early every Wednesday for this purpose
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Before and After School Care
Based on the school schedule and early release days, you may need to explore before and after school care. Ask your local school if they are a Boys & Girls Club site. Space is limited and enrollment is first come, first serve so plan ahead for this.
