Dear Annie,
My daughter recently turned 5 and I have signed her up for a "Kindergarten screening" so that she can attend in the fall. She's really very smart, but she seems so "young" and I'm just not sure that she's ready for the academic pressures of school. Do I have any alternatives?
Signed, Stressed Out Sarah
Dear Stressed Out Sarah,
Kindergarten today is very different from when you were a child. Expectations for children are much higher. Some 5 year olds are ready to take on the academic and social challenges of Elementary School, but your gut will tell you if your child is ready. For a child who is not yet developmentally and emotionally ready, school can be frustrating and intimidating. Fortunately, there are Kindergarten Readiness programs for children that allow them one more year to mature and feel self-confident about their educational journey. The gift of an extra year can make a tremendous difference between a child who struggles through school and a child who has developed a life-long love of learning.
Signed, Annie
