Once upon a time, redshirting was reserved for college athletes and occasionally you started Kindergarten a little late because you just weren’t ready. I would know. As an October baby, I was held out a year. To hear my mom tell it, I was too “quiet and small”. I’m sure that’s a fairly accurate description. Having the extra year gave me the confidence to enter into Kindergarten ready to learn. Also? Kindergarten was a lot more fun in those days!
With changing cut-off dates and large classes that sometimes include both four year olds and six year olds, Kindergarten has changed. Many parents currently struggle with the idea of redshirting their kids (holding them out until age 6) versus moving forward as planned (or deemed appropriate according to dates).
To be honest, the research is mixed. This makes the decision even more complicated for many parents. At the end of the day, the decision should be in the best interest of the child.
I shared some information over at Everyday Family this week to help make the decision a little less complicated.
