What is Transitional Kindergarten?

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a grade offered statewide to children born in the fall, providing them with a strong foundation for success in school and in life. TK was created by the Kindergarten Readiness Act of 2010 which required children starting kindergarten to turn 5 by September 1.

The law had previously required children starting kindergarten to turn 5 by Dec. 2. The goal of this shift was to ensure all children start kindergarten developmentally, socially, and academically read and to make sure that the younger children with fall birthdays were not displaced and had an education option that is more developmentally appropriate. After TK, children enter a year of kindergarten.

Children who attended TK made significant gains in early literacy skills, math skills, and executive functioning compared to their peers who did not attend TK – amounting to as much as a five-month advantage in kindergarten – according to a recent report by the American Institutes for Research.

School districts across California now offer TK. Stratford offers a Transitional Kindergarten program for children who may be age-appropriate for kindergarten, but need the gift of time to further enhance their developmental, social and emotional skills. The curriculum is designed to accustom your child to a full day of learning and activity.

While emphasizing reading, writing, and mathematics skills, Stratford Transitional Kindergarten teachers also foster independence and autonomy in their young students by providing a warm, family-like atmosphere in the classroom. Students learn to form friendships, gain confidence in their newfound academic skills, and look forward to returning to class each day.

Visit Stratford School at 2046 Allen Avenue in Altadena. You can contact them directly at https://www.stratfordschools.com/contactus or call them on (626) 794-1000. For more information visit their website at https://www.stratfordschools.com/.