What are Convergence and Divergence in How Parents and Educators Interpret Child Development When Preschoolers Transition to Kindergarten?

Abstract

This study investigated the interrater agreement between parents of young children and the early childhood professionals working with their family as they transition from preschool to kindergarten. The goal of this research is to identify clusters of greatest congruence and divergence. We examined clusters of agreement between 24 parent and educator dyads from rural Head Start programs in the Midwest. Differences in parent and professional assessment are represented, as well as areas where there are strong convergence. Results draw attention to the items where parents and professionals have greatest difference in the assessment. This study has implications for co-production of services for children and their families with professionals.