Case study of a preschool transition: an example of building resilience in times of uncertainty

Abstract

ABSTRACT Transitions in early childhood can create unease for young children, which may be reflected in their internalizing or externalizing behaviors. It is important to ensure that any large or small transition ends in positive attitudes towards school experiences. This case study describes the events that led up to and followed an abrupt preschool building move. The researcher investigated a preschool’s approach towards preparing children before, during and after the transition, and examined parent and teacher perspectives of how the children responded to the transition. The researcher employed a qualitative methodological approach. Data were collected through parent and teacher interviews and supported by video recordings of classroom activities, photographs and children’s drawings. The data analysis process generated four themes, which offer lessons learned from a successful school transition. The researcher makes the argument that positive experiences with transitions can help children adjust to new contexts and build resilience for future transitions.