Young 5's or Kindergarten: Where should my child go?

Young 5’s or Kindergarten: Where should my child go?
   As we are nearing the end of the school year in preschool, there is always one question in particular that most parents tend to ask, and that question is, “Should my child go to Kindergarten or Young 5’s?” This question tends to bring anxiety, thoughts like, “Have I, as a parent, done enough”, and worries about your child being behind a year. I wanted to clarify the difference between Kindergarten and Young 5’s.

   Young 5’s is more of a social-emotional growth year. These are children that just need that extra year for growth in this area. Know that this still includes working on fine motor skills, cognitive, and language skills. Young 5’s is more of a glorified preschool that is in a school age setting to help with transition and preparation for Kindergarten. Kindergarten is for kids that are ready in all areas of early childhood development. They are developmentally ready emotionally, physically and mentally. The standards that have been set in Kindergarten have higher expectations and really push kids.

    Back to the question that gets asked the most, “Should my child go to Kindergarten or Young 5’s?”, well that’s your choice. You can get recommendations from teachers, professionals, and other establishments, but the final decision comes from you as you know your child the best. Schools recommend that if your child has a summer or fall birthday then they should attend Young 5’s.  However, the Kindergarten cutoff date for schools is September 1st. The cutoff date for Young 5’s is December 1st. Again this is what schools are recommending, but it is ultimately your decision.

   Feel free to ask if you can visit a school or call the school to get some more information on their Young 5’s and Kindergarten programs. They are always willing to help parents in deciding what would work best for your child. Schedule a tour and take time to see and view the classroom. I know this year may be a little different with the pandemic but it never hurts to ask. 

   In the end, the best advice I want to give you is to do what is best for you and your family. If that means taking an extra growth year, that’s okay. An extra year never hurts; it may actually become more beneficial. If you feel that your child is ready for Kindergarten then go for it. Be in prayer and let the Lord guide you in your decision. 
--- Mrs. Lindsay:  4 year old lead teacher
FCDC is available to be of service to you and your child during that transitional year as well.  --- Mrs. Amanda