Determining Child's Readiness for Kindergarten

What recommendations do you have for parents who are unsure if their children are ready for kindergarten? -- Unsure
Answer: Determining whether a child is ready for kindergarten is a rather inexact science. There is a lot of talk about holding back children, especially boys, who have a summer birthday. This is so popular in some communities that as high as 60 percent of all summer birthday boys are held back. On the other hand, the National Association for the Education of Young Children recommends that all children start school when they are age eligible to do so. The organization believes that it is the duty of the school to take children no matter what their readiness level is and provide them with an appropriate education.
On the other hand, others think that it is a great mistake to place any summer birthday child in kindergarten, especially since kindergarten in so many school districts is more like first grade used to be. Research does indicate that there is some disadvantage academically for some younger children -- not all. How long the effects of youngness last is questioned, with some thinking it is over by third grade and others believing it lasts through high school.
Another way to look at readiness for kindergarten is to use a checklist. Most school districts will have a checklist listing the skills that are expected of children entering kindergarten. Parents definitely should look at these now. Even if your child is not ready according to a checklist, he or she may be ready by August, as young children change so fast. So be sure to check again for readiness, if necessary.
You will also get a good idea of your child's readiness for kindergarten by talking to his preschool teacher and asking about your child's readiness level. This is an informed opinion that you need. Finally, go visit your child in the preschool classroom. Notice how he is handling the experience socially, emotionally and academically compared to the other students. It will give you a good idea of how well he would handle kindergarten.
When it comes down to making the decision about enrolling your child in kindergarten, remember that you are the one who best knows your child. Factor in the child's age, checklist results and pre-school experience.