Countdown to Kindergarten supports transitions into schools for 4- and 5-year-olds by connecting incoming students, their families, and their teachers in a series of one-on-one sessions during the summer.
Evidence Informed
Developed by South Carolina First Steps in 2003, the Countdown to Kindergarten program is part of a statewide initiative including community events, professional development opportunities, and an annual public awareness campaign. Learn more at countdownsc.org.
This map only shows programs funded by South Carolina First Steps. For more information about services available in your area, contact your local First Steps partnership.
The program is designed for rising kindergartners who are at potentially higher risk for early school failure.
Families with preschool-aged children
Teachers complete six one-hour sessions with each child's family, five in the family's home and a final visit in the kindergarten classroom.
In-home coaching with trained parent educators
A focus on language and literacy development
Learning experiences for early childhood professionals
Countdown to Kindergarten is designed to increase family awareness of kindergarten expectations, create positive home-school relationships, and ensure a smooth transition to school.
2,247
children served
2,244
families served
29
counties served
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