Embedded Files
Bridge to Preschool (BTP) is a parent-child group experience created at The Primary School (2016 - 2026). This program launched with the goal of increasing the preschool readiness of children by focusing on improving social emotional learning skills, and familiarizing parent and child with preschool routines in the months leading up to preschool. These groups were implemented at The Primary School East Palo Alto site by the Early Family Foundations team from 2018 to 2026 when The Primary School closed. In addition BTP was piloted externally with multiple Bay Area organizations between 2021 and 2026. Get an overview of the Bridge to Preschool Program reference this BTP 101 resource. For an look into how it fit into The Primary Schools overall program watch the video below.
Interested in bringing this model to your community? Jump to the Bridge to Preschool Resource Package…
Want to learn more first? Read more about the model below…
BTP can be effective when implemented over 8 to 16 weekly groups for parents and their children in a preschool classroom setting. The program is intended to set children and caregivers up for success as they transition to preschool by making the environment, expectations, and routine familiar. This includes practicing separation in a slow, mindful way to build a childʼs comfort in school environments.
Children practice social emotional skills, parents get a chance to observe their child and peers in a school setting. Staff share observations with parents that they can share with the childʼs future school. Children with higher developmental needs especially benefit from the program. Implementation includes the option to hold virtual or in person parent-reflection groups separate from the parent-child groups.
Over the years across implementations, we saw that after participation in Bridge to Preschool, parents and children feel more prepared for preschool, more familiar with preschool routines, children increase their social emotional skills and parents are using skills to support their child’s SEL development.
Page updated
Report abuse