Opinions of classroom teachers on the adaptation process of primary school first grade students

In this study, it was aimed to examine the problems experienced by first grade students in the process of adaptation to school according to the opinions of classroom teachers. In the study, basic qualitative research approach, one of the qualitative research methods, was adopted in accordance with the problem situation and content. The participants of the study consisted of six classroom teachers who actually teach first grade in public primary schools in Siverek district of Şanlıurfa province. The participants in the study were determined by using criterion sampling method, one of the purposeful sampling types. The data related to the research were obtained through focus group interviews. The data obtained in the study were analysed by content analysis method. According to the findings of the study, teacher, family and student cooperation emerges in the school adaptation process. This situation is expressed as the superior aspects of the school adaptation process. The short duration of the adaptation week is considered as a limitation. It was concluded that gender and the number of siblings or whether children had siblings or not had no effect on school adaptation; social life was found to be effective. It was concluded that the age factor affects school adaptation. Factors such as parents being educated and children receiving pre-school education facilitate children's adaptation to school. It was determined that children who received pre-school education adapted to the environment more easily with the recognition of school culture. Good socioeconomic status of the family had a positive effect on the adaptation process of the students to school. Children's experience of receiving pre-school education before starting primary school and being cognitively, physically and socially ready for school will facilitate the school adaptation process. For this reason, it is recommended that families, children and educators should investigate their responsibilities in order to bring children's readiness to an adequate level. Key words: Adaptation, school adaptation, primary school, first grade.