QUESTION

My daughter has been in preschool the past two years.  Her birthday is December 18.  I know there are some laws that require her to go to school next year.  I want her to go this year when she turns five years old.   She can read some books and do some math as well as write her name.  I feel she is ready for kindergarten and would like her tested to begin December 18.  Would you please let me know whom I should contact?

ANSWER

I realize your daughter may possess the necessary academic proficiency to succeed in kindergarten, but there are other aspects of her development to consider.  When we look at a child’s development, we consider emotional, social, physical and cognitive development. As a young child I moved many times due to my father’s profession, as did my three sons.  Each move affected each of them in different ways.  The most difficult moves for them were when they occurred in the middle of the school year.  The children in the class had been together since the beginning of school and had developed their learning community. Although my sons were cognitively very capable, the midyear moves affected their social and emotional balance.  

Our California State law states that a child must be five years old by December 2 of the year in which the child enters kindergarten.  Therefore, your child is not eligible to enter school until the following year. You can always contact your local district, but the law precludes allowing a child to enter early. Since she has had the advantage of enrollment in preschool, it is highly recommended that she continue in that setting for the remainder of the year.  I wish her much success and enjoyment as she begins kindergarten with her peers.

Sincerely,

Helen Faul

Member CKA Board of Directors

Treasurer

Legislative Chair