Introduction to the Kindergarten Readiness Outcomes Playbook

Developmental Screenings: Kindergarten Readiness Strategy Spotlight

Kindergarten Readiness Playbook: Strategy Spotlight

How-Tos, Tips & Tools

Overview

A strong start sets children up for future success. Kindergarten readiness is linked to later outcomes, like third-grade reading, high school graduation, college attendance and earnings. Communities can improve early outcomes through high-quality early learning, engaged caregivers, access to health care, and safe, inclusive schools.

This is a strategy spotlight published alongside StriveTogether’s Cradle-to-Career Outcomes Playbook: Kindergarten Readiness. The playbook synthesizes research and practical guidance communities can use to improve kindergarten readiness.
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Catching developmental concerns early gives children the support they need before they start school.

In Connecticut, four Cradle to Career Network members are expanding access to developmental screenings across health care, child care and community settings.

  • Waterbury Bridge to Success increased the share of children assessed as developmentally on track from 38% in 2022 to 47% in 2023 by bringing screenings to places families already go.
  • Bridgeport Prospers reached more than 5,400 families through the Sparkler app, leading to a 37% increase in completed screenings.

By meeting families where they are and making screenings easier to access, these communities are helping more children get the support they need to start kindergarten ready.

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Playbook Chapters

Kindergarten Readiness Playbook

Supported by the Gates Foundation, this playbook shares research-backed strategies and questions to strengthen kindergarten readiness outcomes.

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A group of kindergarten students lay on their backs on a rug, reaching up toward the camera and smiling
  1. Introduction to Kindergarten Readiness
  2. Essential Questions for Kindergarten Readiness
  3. The Case for Kindergarten Readiness
  4. About the Kindergarten Readiness Playbook
  5. Kindergarten Success
  6. High-Quality, Full-Day Pre-Kindergarten
  7. Teaching and Learning
  8. Positive School Environments
  9. Early Experiences and Environments
  10. Appendix and Bibliography