Delaying Kindergarten (Redshirting): Pros, Cons & Starting at Age 6

Quick Answer: “Redshirting” is the practice of intentionally delaying a child’s kindergarten entry by one year, causing them to start at age 6 instead of 5. Parents do this to give their child an extra year to mature. The potential pros include better focus and social skills, while the cons can include boredom if the child is academically ready and being older than peers.

The decision of whether to send an age-eligible child to kindergarten or wait a year is a difficult one for many parents, especially for those with children who have summer birthdays and would be the youngest in their class. This practice, known as academic redshirting, has become increasingly common. This guide explores the potential advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed choice.

Potential Pros of Delaying Kindergarten (The “Gift of Time”)

Proponents of redshirting argue that giving a child an extra year of development can provide significant advantages.

Increased Maturity: An extra year can lead to better emotional regulation, a longer attention span, and more advanced social skills, making the transition to a structured school environment easier.
Improved Academic Readiness: The child may have stronger pre-reading and math skills, which could lead to greater confidence and early academic success. Research from sources like the National Bureau of Economic Research has explored these effects.
Physical Advantages: Being older can mean being bigger and more coordinated, which can be an advantage in sports and playground activities.

Potential Cons of Delaying Kindergarten

However, holding a child back is not without potential downsides, especially if the child is already ready for the challenge of school.

Boredom and Frustration: A child who is academically ready for kindergarten may become bored or frustrated in a Pre-K or daycare setting that is no longer challenging. This can sometimes lead to behavioral issues.
Social Mismatch: The child will always be one of the oldest in their grade, which could lead to social differences, particularly during adolescence.
Delayed Entry into Workforce: A later start to school means a later high school graduation and a later entry into college or the workforce.
Cost of Extra Childcare: An additional year of preschool or daycare can be a significant financial burden for families.

How to Make the Decision

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best decision depends entirely on your individual child. Consider the following:

Talk to their Preschool Teacher: They have an expert opinion on your child’s readiness compared to their peers. They can provide valuable insights into your child’s social and academic skills.
Observe Your Child: How do they interact with other kids? Can they follow multi-step directions? Do they show curiosity and a desire to learn?
Consider Your Child’s Temperament: Is your child generally confident and adaptable, or more shy and cautious? The latter may benefit more from an extra year.
Check Eligibility: First, ensure your child is even eligible for kindergarten this year by using our Kindergarten Cut-Off Calculator. If they miss the cutoff, the decision is made for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is redshirting more common for boys or girls?

Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that redshirting is more common for boys, particularly those with summer birthdays. This is often based on the general observation that girls tend to develop verbal and fine motor skills slightly earlier than boys.

Will my child be teased for being older?

In the early years of elementary school, this is highly unlikely. The age range in a typical classroom is already about 12 months, so being one of the oldest is not usually noticeable to other children.