Is starting school at an early age helpful or harmful for your child?

Answer 1

I am an early childhood student teacher (preschool-3rd grade). I have worked in preschools and I have to say that I think 4 years old is a great time to start children in preschool. It seems that parents want their children to start so early, at 1 1/2-2 years old so that their child has a jump start on learning. That is great, however, children are not developmentally ready then. By 4 years old, children are beginning to form their own identity and are ready to go to a school environment away from mom and dad. Even at 4-years, some children struggle but at that age, children are ready and eager to start preschool. Before the age of four, I think parents should enroll their children in play groups so they have the opportunity to interact with children.

I am 22 years old and my parents waited till I was 4 to send me to preschool because I had a summer birthday. I think that was the wisest move they made. If I would have been sent to preschool at 3, I would have been one of the youngest in my class.

Answer 2

Do you mean a child starting Primary School. If so I think it's best if the child is five or turning five. I have seen many children start school too young and they don't do as well as older children.
This can affect their self esteem which has been linked to slow progress students.
A year in the life of a four year old is a long time. It is better for a child to be among the older students than the younger ones.
A good preschool is a great alternative. Three days a week seems to be a good option for four year olds.
A good Transition to School or Prep class will help younger children cope better.

http://www.prepared4school.com

may have more info.

Answer 3

Definitely helpful. It's a well known fact that the first few years from birth on are when your child is the most receptive to learning, especially languages. This is also the time when your child WANTS TO LEARN...The earlier the better.

Answer 4

I feel that it is helpful in their social development. My daughter started preschool when she was 3 months. I had to go back to work and this was my only option. Today she is 2 and she has an incredible vocabulary in both english and spanish. She will also let my husband and I go out and leave her with a babysitter. She likes to be around different people and I like that she is friendly to everyone. I think it was a good decision.

Answer 5

Totally depends upon your child and what "school" you are speaking of.
My son needed to start Kindergarten later because he wasn't ready for the structure. However, he needed the "preschool" experience and started there at the age of 2.
My other son did fine starting Kindergarten earlier and had just one year of Preschool.
So, totally depends.

Answer 6

Helpful. I agree with most of what has been previously said. In my own experience, I was glad I did not have to PEEL my children from my legs the first day of kindergarden- I was more heartbroken than they were. I believe socially and mentally they were better prepared for a classroom because of preschool.

Answer 7

a play-based school is suitable for children at a earlier age as they learn through play and it is only play that will capture their interest. play comes in all areas of development - intellectually, physically, social and emotionally. going to school at an early age also enable young children to socialise easily which will help them in their future learning.

Answer 8

My son is 4 and started school this morning.... I have 5 children all together and I think it is great for them to go as young as posible cause they learn faster and need to learn how to be around other kids so yes it is good for them!

Answer 9

It is definitely helpful. It teaches the child to mix and mingle in a social environment.

Answer 10

helpful. starting at an early age is vary good. they can learn more.