Health Equity: Full Day Kindergarten Programs
CDC
An Evidence-Based Practice
Description
Full-day kindergarten programs are provided for children ages 4 to 6 years old in a formal school or school-like setting, prior to entering first grade. The programs are 5 days a week and last 5 to 6 hours a day.
The Community Preventive Services Task Force (CPSTF) recommends full-day kindergarten programs to enhance health prospects of low-income and racial and ethnic minority kindergartners. Evidence shows that full-day programs substantially improve reading and mathematics performance than when compared to half-day kindergarten or full-day kindergarten on alternating days.
The Community Preventive Services Task Force (CPSTF) recommends full-day kindergarten programs to enhance health prospects of low-income and racial and ethnic minority kindergartners. Evidence shows that full-day programs substantially improve reading and mathematics performance than when compared to half-day kindergarten or full-day kindergarten on alternating days.
Goal / Mission
The goal of full-day kindergarten programs is to prepare children academically, socially, and emotionally for effective participation in the educational system.
Impact
Children who enroll in full-day kindergarten programs see improved scores on standardized tests and assigned grades than those enrolled in half-day kindergarten programs. Those enrolled in full-day programs also see increased social-emotional health.
Results / Accomplishments
The Community Preventive Services Task Force (CPTSF) found statistically significant results for students enrolled in a full-day kindergarten program. In 50 studies, CPTSF found scores on standardized achievement tests or assigned grades improved by the end of kindergarten or the beginning of first grade.
Since early academic achievement is an established determinant of long-term academic and health-related outcomes, improvements in academic achievement among low-income and racial and ethnic minority children can be expected to improve their long-term health.
Additionally, one study showed students who participated in full-day kindergarten programs showed an increased ability to work and play with others.
Since early academic achievement is an established determinant of long-term academic and health-related outcomes, improvements in academic achievement among low-income and racial and ethnic minority children can be expected to improve their long-term health.
Additionally, one study showed students who participated in full-day kindergarten programs showed an increased ability to work and play with others.
About this Promising Practice
Primary Contact
The Community Guide
1600 Clifton Rd, NE
MS E69
Atlanta, GA 30329
(404) 498-1827
communityguide@cdc.gov
https://www.thecommunityguide.org/
1600 Clifton Rd, NE
MS E69
Atlanta, GA 30329
(404) 498-1827
communityguide@cdc.gov
https://www.thecommunityguide.org/
Topics
Education / Student Performance K-12
Education
Education
For more details
Target Audience
Children