The Experience of Transition from Preschool to Primary School for Children with Down Syndrome

My name is Laura-Marie Maher and I am a Trainee Educational Psychologist currently studying on the Doctoral in Education and Psychology programme in UCD. I am also a qualified primary school teacher.

As part of this college course, we have to undertake research. Given my interest in the area of Down Syndrome, I have decided to look at the experiences of parents and teachers of children with Down Syndrome as they transition from preschool settings to mainstream primary school. From personal experience, I have seen how challenging this period is for parents and teachers alike, and I am eager that this research may contribute to a better understanding of the existing supports and barriers, the impact of the transition, and how we as Educational Psychologists can best support parents and teachers to facilitate a positive experience. 

The research would involve one interview with primary school teachers of children in junior infants with Down syndrome after the transition (November to December 2021). I am carrying out the interviews virtually to make it as accessible as possible for teachers.