ED252307 PS014831

Title: Transitions: The Influence of Parent's Attitudes and Behaviors on the Adjustment of Two Year Olds to a New School Experience.
Author(s): Jorde, Paula
Pages: 32
Publication Date: March 1984
Notes: Paper presented at the Annual Convention of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (Los Angeles, CA, November 8-11, 1984).
Available from: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage.
Language: English
Document Type: Reports--Research (143); Speeches/meeting papers (150)
Geographic Source: U.S.; Illinois
Journal Announcement: RIEMAY1985

The families of 10 children enrolled in a class for 2-year-olds at the Mills College Children's School participated in a study of parent attitudes about separation and parental behaviors that minimized separation anxiety and facilitated a smooth transition from home to school environments. The sample included nine mothers who were married and living with their husbands, and one single parent. Two instruments were employed to gather data: The Parent Questionnaire Interview form and the Child Classroom Adjustment Rating Form. Results suggested that separation anxiety is a complex phenomeon experienced by both parent and child. Overall, it was concluded that achieving a smooth transition depends on (1) the quality, consistency, and patterns of interaction between parent and child; and (2) the elements of program design, staff composition, and general feelings of acceptance conveyed to the child in the new setting. No easy formula exists for sorting out the many
influential factors involved in this set of experiences. Any assertion that transition to nursery school encompasses a homogeneous set of experiences would be untenable. (RH)

Descriptors: *Attachment Behavior; Family Influence; Interviews; Measures (Individuals); *Mothers; *Parent Attitudes; Parent Child Relationship; Parent Teacher Cooperation; Preschool Education; Rating Scales; *Separation Anxiety; *Student Adjustment; *Toddlers
Identifiers: *Parent Behavior