Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a grade that serves as a bridge between preschool and Kindergarten. It provides students with late birthdays the “gift of time” to develop fundamental skills that will be useful for success in school. Young students are exposed to Kindergarten standards through developmentally appropriate games and projects.
Preparing through Play
In Transitional Kindergarten (TK), our youngest learners are taught numbers, letters, letter sounds, colors and shapes. Along with academic content, it’s important to recognize that these students are also learning how to navigate a school environment. TK students learn basic skills such as putting on a backpack, using the cafeteria, playing on the playground and utilizing school supplies. For some students, this is their first experience in a classroom setting, and they must learn social skills like sharing and taking turns. Although it may seem small, these are crucial pieces of knowledge that children need to acquire. Having the opportunity to develop these skills before entering Kindergarten helps them be more prepared and ready to learn.
![Playing with dinosaurs](https://web.dusd.net/alameda/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2024/08/dinosaurs-800x500-1.jpg)
From fine motor strength and coordination, sorting and classifying, to comparing and contrasting, students are learning a lot more than their ABCs, and they are doing it through fun activities.
The difference between preschool and TK
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and preschool have many similarities as they both serve as forms of early education to prepare children for Kindergarten. However, there are some differences. In California, Transitional Kindergarten teachers are required to meet the same Credential requirements as Kindergarten teachers, whereas preschool teachers, although still held to a very high standard, may not need to meet the same requirements. The most significant difference, though, is that Transitional Kindergarten is provided free of cost. This is particularly beneficial for working parents/guardians seeking a secure and nurturing environment for their child, with the added advantage of educational enrichment. And the best part is that Downey Unified TK offers full-day programs!
Enroll Today!
If your child turns 5 years old on or after September 2, 2024, and before June 2, 2025, they are eligible for Transitional Kindergarten and you can enroll today! Do you live outside the district boundaries? You can apply for a permit here. Students with birthdays after June 2, 2025, should call us at (562) 469-6553 for more options.