Increasing attendance Rate of the Kindergarten Pupils in Tambis Central Elementary School through Home Visitation

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Kindergarten is the transition period from informal to formal literacy considering that this is a critical period where experiences translate to school readiness. But this could only happen if there are no absences in the classroom. In this study the researcher aimed to increase class attendance of kindergarteners. In conducting this study, the researcher used a questionnaire for parents.

METHODS

The instrument used in this study was a researcher-made questionnaire to determine the causes of absenteeism in school.

RESULTS

The researcher found four reasons behind pupils' absenteeism. First, pupils do not go to school if their parents could not give them any allowance. Lack of financial support affects the academic performance of the child. This means that children need money to attend school. Second, parents fail to attend PTA meetings and other school activities. Third, students contract certain illnesses that necessitate them to rest. This was the most common response. Fourth, some pupils would rather play computer games at home or at the computer shop. In August to September, 134 kindergarten pupils did not attend their classes. But in October to November, only 63 did not attend their classes. With the use of interventions, absenteeism decreases.

DISCUSSIONS

Kindergarten is the period of greatest growth and development when the brain develops most rapidly, almost at its fullest. It is a period when walking, talking, self-esteem, vision of the world, and moral foundations are established. As a kindergarten teacher, it is important for us to find ways and strategies to solve some problems encountered inside the classroom. Through this intervention, kindergarten pupils would want to go to school more frequently if not always. The researcher believes that through effective strategies like home visitation the attendance rate can increase.