Predicting children's academic achievement after the transition to first grade: A two-year longitudinal study

The transition from kindergarten to first grade has been described as a critical period for children's academic development. Furthermore, research indicates that peer status is connected with academic adjustment, yet the underlying processes remain unclear. By means of a two-year longitudinal study during kindergarten and first grade (N = 153). we aimed to shed light on the antecedents of achievement at the end of first grade. Based on the parallel processes mediation model (Buhs, 2005), a comprehensive predictive model was constructed and tested. Results showed that (a) the parallel processes mediation model is partially valid during the transition from kindergarten to first grade; and (b) there is more support for an effect of academic self-concept on achievement than vice versa. This comprehensive model increases our insight in the factors that enhance children's academic development during the transition to first grade. (C) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.