FAQ

Research indicates that retaining children is generally not beneficial and can lead to more challenges than solutions. Fourth grade is a critical time for building self-esteem, and retention can be detrimental. Schools should focus on providing tutoring, after-school programs, or summer school to help students catch up. Retention policies vary by state, with some requiring parental consent and others needing only the principal's approval. To prevent retention, consider offering summer tutoring or other support. For more insights, explore resources like Education Week (www.edweek.org) to understand the latest research and strategies.

If your daughter demonstrates readiness through early testing, enrolling her in kindergarten early could be a great option, especially for gifted children who often lack sufficient challenges in traditional settings. Studies show that early school entry is academically beneficial and does not negatively impact social development. While developmental rates vary, being close to the cutoff date (60 days in this case) is unlikely to affect her success. However, if she seems immature or reluctant, consider waiting. Trust your instincts and her eagerness to start school. Good luck!

That is a tough question that many educators across the country cannot agree upon since the entrance age for kindergarten varies from turning 5 on June 1 to October 1 in many states. It really depends on the quality of the school. If you are in a good school district, than your child will be fine at the age the district sets because they are able to teach children at the developmental level they enter. If the school district is not good, then you have to consider this issue more carefully.Basically, if your child is excited about going to school, is comfortable around other children, and has good verbal skills, then she should do fine. If your child is very bright, then one of the important considerations is how good of a gifted program the district has. If you hold a bright child back in a district that has a weak curriculum or no gifted program, she will be bored and face little challenge. By getting into school as soon as possible, you provide your child with a more challenging curriculum and a better school experience. If you feel your child is shy or not academically ready, then waiting now is better than retaining a child later in school, which can be devastating to self-esteem and is not supported by research.Good luck,Dr. Shillingburg