First Advisor

Pierce, Corey

First Committee Member

Zaghlawan, Hasan

Second Committee Member

Gosselin, Katrine

Third Committee Member

Athanasiou, Michelle

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Document Type

Dissertation

Date Created

12-2025

Department

College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Special Education, Special Education Student Work

Abstract

The transition from preschool to kindergarten leads to changes for students and their families regarding services, providers, and environments. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore how primary caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) perceived the transition from preschool to inclusive kindergarten. This study focused on the concerns, barriers, and experiences caregivers encountered throughout the transition process. By understanding caregivers’ perspectives, the study aimed to identify ways to improve kindergarten transition practices for future families. Based on existing literature, areas in need of investigation included the following: (a) how success of preschool-to-kindergarten transition impacts changes to the least restrictive environment, (b) minimizing transition challenges for students going into kindergarten, and (c) the application of evidence-based practices to the kindergarten transition for students with ASD. The research question used in this study was what are the challenges and successes that caregivers of children with ASD experience as their children transition from preschool to kindergarten. By examining 10 primary caregivers’ perceptions about these experiences through a phenomenological study, I discovered how their experiences can help guide preschool-to-kindergarten transitions for other families. Five essential themes emerged from the data: (1) Inadequate Transition Support Structures, (2) Changes in Expectations Between Environmental Settings, (3) Importance of Staff and Environmental Familiarity, (4) Need for Caregiver Involvement and Advocacy, and (5) Inclusion and Least Restrictive ABSTRACT Environment. The study yielded insights into primary caregivers’ perceptions of the preschoolto- kindergarten transition for professionals to consider as they support families.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Extent

151 pages

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

Digital Origin

Born digital

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