Parents Education Corner: When is My Child Ready to Start School?

When Is My Child Ready to Start School?

As parents, we are our children’s first teachers—whether we recognize it or not. When my family moved to Stafford, we quickly discovered that many of the local preschools had long waiting lists. Choosing the right preschool or elementary school for your child can feel as daunting as choosing a college. Will the school be a good fit? How can we be sure? The key is to start your research early and make informed decisions.

One minute, your child is an infant, and the next, they’re approaching kindergarten. But are they truly ready? How do you know when it’s the right time to start school? Should you choose a public or private school? What’s the age cutoff?

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) defines school readiness as:
“School readiness describes the capabilities of children, their families, schools, and communities that best promote student success in kindergarten and beyond. Each component—children, families, schools, and communities—plays an essential role in developing school readiness. No one component can stand on its own.”

For more information, review the VDOE’s resources here:
● https://tinyurl.com/School-Readiness-Overview
● https://tinyurl.com/Early-Childhood-Standards

As an education consultant with Sylvan Learning, I work with many families eager to ensure their child is ready for kindergarten or first grade. Some parents are told by teachers that their child should be reading by December of first grade. But readiness varies from child to child, and it’s important to recognize that every child develops at their own pace. I recommend reviewing the VDOE’s tips for families on preparing for kindergarten at the Virginia Early Learning Supports Webinar: https://tinyurl.com/5v6s4r9b.

As we count down the days to winter break, take a moment to reflect on your child’s next steps. The journey to elementary school should be both exciting and fun. Enjoy these precious moments—time passes quickly.

“Children are not things to be molded, but people to be unfolded.” – Jess Lair