Possible Retention for Young 2nd Grader

My daughter is 6 and in the second grade. She cries because she can't keep up with her classmates. Is this a reason to hold her back next year? -- Uncertain
Answer: We rarely favor retention, as it does not help most students. Instead, we like to see interventions done as early as possible to bring a child up to grade level. Meet with your child's teacher immediately to get the teacher's perspective on your child's ability to handle the work. Find out what the school can do to get your child on track. Find out if a tutor would be a good idea. Find out what good opportunities there are in your area for more help this summer: summer school, college remedial programs, learning centers. Also, find out what you can do to improve your child's skills.
Your daughter would appear to be young for a second-grader. On the positive side, young children change fast. Your daughter may suddenly catch up with some help.