08/30/2026
Starting kindergarten is a major step in childhood, and being ready involves much more than recognizing letters, numbers, or basic academic skills. Children of similar school age can still be at very different stages when it comes to concentration, managing emotions, controlling impulses, and adjusting to daily routines. Some research has found that children who entered kindergarten one year later had lower parent-reported levels of inattention and hyperactivity as they grew older. Extra time before formal schooling may also give children more opportunities for free play, movement, imagination, and social interaction, which are important parts of early development. Through everyday play, children practice sharing, solving problems, handling frustration, communicating with others, and becoming more independent. Since every child develops differently, school readiness is not simply about reaching a certain birthday. Considering a child's emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development together can provide a more complete picture of whether they are prepared for the demands of kindergarten.