To Begin Kindergarten or Not to Begin Kindergarten? That is the question.

Well it’s that time of year. Kids all over the country are now having trouble deciding what to tell people when they ask what grade they are in. Our oldest usually answers, “Well I’m almost in third grade.” And he is. The school year is coming to a close, summer is around the corner, and Kindergarten roundups are happening.

            So the all-important question comes up in almost every conversation with anyone who has a preschooler in the home. “So will you be sending your child to Kindergarten this year?” You answer as best you can and wait for the approval or disapproval of the person asking because you truly aren’t sure of what to do either because of your child’s young age. And that’s okay.

This is a hard decision, but let me make it easier on you…don’t do it.

            I realize this sounds harsh, but I have reasoning, experience, and research ready to go. I don’t have a “right” to tell you what to do, so feel free to dismiss my advice if you feel so inclined. But I will tell you that seven years of experience as a special education and general education teacher in middle school, hundreds of professional relationships with other teachers, and years of research have my mind set. I realize that some may not like what I have to say, but I speak the truth. Might your child be okay? Sure! Not every kid is the same. But the vast majority of children whom are started in Kindergarten too early tend to struggle. And I would rather help society avoid that issue…even if I am wrong in some cases.

            So let’s dive right in. Remember I only use “he” because I have two boys and I’m used to it. Most of the time I hear parents give one of the following reasons for beginning their child in preschool too early and I have a rebuttal for every one:

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Articles by Bailey Koch

Bailey Koch

Bailey Koch is an advocate for those who can't easily advocate for themselves in every way. Married to her hottie hubby, whom has survived 5+ suicide attempts, and mom to two teenage boys, the oldest with High Functioning Autism and youngest with Epilepsy, Bailey is passionate about mental health and parenting through the messy realities. Additionally, Bailey is a Doctor of Special Education and works as an instructor at the University of Nebraska at Kearney preparing future special educators to be advocates for the learning of all. Bailey and her husband, Jeremy, have written and published two books. "Never Alone: A Husband and Wife's Journey with Depression and Faith" details their struggles with severe depression and the journey toward understanding their purpose, accepting help, and finding faith. "When the House Feels Sad: Helping You Understand Depression" is written for families, at a child's level, to open up a conversation about the reality of Depression. Follow their journey, the triumphs and the challenges, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/anchoringhopeformentalhealth and Instagram at @anchoringhopeformentalhealth.