Benefits and Drawbacks of Being Youngest in Kindergarten

Our 4-year-old daughter has been in Montessori preschool for the past 1 1/2 years, and her teacher agrees that she is ready for kindergarten. In fact, the child has already taught herself to read. Unfortunately, we might have to enroll her in private school, as her birthday is 10 days after the cutoff to get into the public schools this fall. What are the possible benefits and drawbacks of being the oldest/brightest girl in her class, versus the youngest/merely average? - Puzzled
Answer: In some states, school districts are able to admit children who have not reached the age cutoff date, provided they meet certain guidelines. There are also states that require public schools to admit children to kindergarten if they have already attended a private kindergarten - even for a short time. Be sure that you know exactly what the laws are in your state regarding enrolling children in kindergarten. You should also know what your school district's policy is on admitting younger children who have attended a private kindergarten to first grade.
Most studies seem to support the view that older children do better in kindergarten. Nevertheless, a bright little girl who already knows how to read should be able to handle the academic side of kindergarten. She could even be a star pupil.
Before making a decision to put your daughter in kindergarten now, look down the road. The dynamics of age are far more important in middle school and high school. How will she feel about riding a bicycle when her friends are learning to drive? Furthermore, it is easier for older children to resist peer pressure.
Have you considered finding a Montessori kindergarten? This would allow your daughter to continue learning in the same way that she has been doing so successfully. Montessori programs are very hands-on and let children move around from learning station to learning station, while public and private kindergartens might require her to remain seated for longer periods of time. This can be challenging for younger children. There is also the possibility of enrolling her in a pre-kindergarten program if your district has one.