Early Entry into Kindergarten
Episode 28
Requirements for Early Entry
- The age of entry for kindergarten varies by state. In North Carolina the cut-off date is 5 by August 31
- There is an early entry process families can go through for children who do not make the cut-off
- IQ and achievement testing are required for early entry
- Testing must be done privately
- Child must score 98% percentile for IQ, and 98% for reading or math
- Parents must submit a portfolio work samples and letters of recommendation
- The individual school ultimately makes the final decision as to who is admitted
- Staying with peer group
- Can benefit children who are academically advanced
- Children can get frustrated when they are not being challenged
- Some bright kids can burn out or have behavior problems because they are bored
- Important to look at social and behavioral development of the child
- If a child has trouble sitting through activities, he or she may not be ready yet
- Child not have the impulse control
- Could have problems settling in
- Testing should include social/emotional factors ex. how did child separate from parents, could they sit still
- NC considers early entry the same as skipping a grade
- Worth considering how your child feel feel about possibly being a year or two younger than classmates
- How will they feel if they are physically smaller than classmates?
- How will it impact there social life later on?
- How will your child feel about being around older kids?
- Some children like being the oldest child in the class, whereas others prefer to be around older peers
- Further you get from the cut-off could be more difficult it can be for a child to start early
- Testing can give you a fuller picture of the child and help see if they would be successful
- Some communities have a lot of kids who are redshirting
- There are reading and math websites that can give information to help prepare your child for testing
- Incorporate math and literacy into every day life ex. talking about what you see when you are at the grocery store
- Inform the teacher that you are planning on starting early
- Children usually enjoy the testing process
- Explain to child that they will be going in to play games and give their mind a workout
- Keep it simple and share information you know in a child friendly way
- Try not to share your stress with them
- Can validate disappointments if they are not going to kindergarten
- Let them know fun things they can look forward to for the year
- Visit your county website for specific process for early entry
- Dr. Wynns has a new book called New Wimpy Parenting
- Tips and strategies for parents to bring power authority back to parents
- Improve listening and cooperation
