I have a child whose birthday is past the cut-off date to enter kindergarten this upcoming school year. However, she is an extremely bright and mature child, and I would hate for her to have to sit out another school year because of a late birthday. Would a transitional kindergarten program be the answer? Are these programs the same as regular kindergarten programs with the only difference being the length of time during the day that a child receives academic learning? - Confused
Answer: Transitional kindergarten programs do not usually have the same curriculum as regular kindergarten programs. The programs typically stress socialization and reading-readiness skills. There is much emphasis on hands-on learning like the traditional milk-and-cookies kindergartens that everyone once attended. They serve as a bridge between preschool and today's more academic kindergartens and are especially for young 5's who are not quite ready for kindergarten. After completing the transitional program, children will enter regular kindergarten the next year. You'll need to ask your local district if this program is right for your child.