What is KIP?
The Kindergarten Intervention Project helps children adjust to school, promotes positive social skills and invites and involves parents in their children’s education.
Why is this program being offered?
Children entering school are facing a new environment. For some children the adjustment is minimal, for others it is a big change. How quickly children adapt to this new setting goes a long way in determining their future success in school. Before formal academic learning can occur, children have to internalize the rules of social interaction. They have to learn the values and beliefs of the new school environment. Those who have difficulty may begin a downward spiral of academic failure and behavioural problems.
How will this program make a difference?
KIP has run for several years and has proved it works. It helps children and their families adjust to school in the following ways:
- students learn positive social skills
- social and behavioural problems are reduced
- parents are involved in the school in meaningful and positive ways
- classroom teachers receive direct support and training
- schools make full use of professional resources available to them
Why kindergarten students?
KIP greatly enhances a positive transition to a new school environment. Research tells us that the earlier we intervene, the greater the likelihood that children will be successful in school. Academic, social and behaviour problems are less likely to develop or intensify when an intervention program is introduced in kindergarten.
When did KIP begin?
KIP began as a Peel Board of Education pilot project in 1989. It has evolved and developed since. Each year more schools participate in KIP.
How do we know early intervention programs are successful
We know children learn most when they are young. Research shows early intervention promotes positive social behaviour and helps prevent the development of problem behaviours.
Does KIP work?
Results of an evaluation study showed that participation in KIP had a positive effect on parents, teachers and most of all students. KIP had significant positive effects on the social skills of kindergarten students, on parent-school relationships, and on teachers’ knowledge and skills.
How can parents get involved in the lassroom?
- visit the school and the classroom
- arrange to call or make an appointment with your child’s teacher
- volunteer your time
- attend meetings and workshops offered by the school
What can you do at home?
- talk to your child about what he or she is learning in school
- practice the social skills being taught in the classroom
- read the classroom and school newsletters
- ask your child’s teacher for other suggestions
