When Does My Child Start School?
Planning your child's kindergarten start is one of the most important educational decisions you'll make. Find out when they're eligible and whether they're truly ready.
Last updated: December 2024
California Cutoff:
Children must turn 5 by September 1st to start kindergarten that year.
Being the oldest in the class often provides academic and social advantages that can last throughout a child's school career.
Understanding Kindergarten Cutoff Dates
Every state sets a specific date by which children must turn five to be eligible for kindergarten that year. These cutoff dates vary widely—some states require children to turn five by August 1st, while others allow enrollment if they'll turn five by December 1st.
But eligibility doesn't always equal readiness. Many experts recommend that children born close to the cutoff date—especially in the few weeks or months before it—benefit from waiting an additional year. This practice, sometimes called "academic redshirting," gives children extra time for social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Key Decision Factors
- Age relative to classmates matters more than absolute age
- Social-emotional maturity often predicts success better than academic skills
- Boys and girls may develop at different rates—consider individual readiness
- The "relative age effect" can impact confidence and achievement for years
Common Questions
Should I start my child in kindergarten if they barely make the cutoff?
This depends entirely on your child's individual development. Consider factors beyond academics: Can they sit still for structured activities? Do they separate from you comfortably? Can they follow multi-step instructions and play cooperatively? Many pediatricians and educators suggest that children born in the 2-3 months before the cutoff often benefit from waiting, especially boys who may develop more slowly in executive function skills.
What if my child misses the cutoff by just a few days?
While frustrating, most states strictly enforce cutoff dates. However, some districts offer early entrance evaluations for children who demonstrate exceptional readiness. These usually involve comprehensive testing of academic, social, and developmental skills. Contact your school district to inquire about early entrance procedures if you believe your child is ready despite missing the cutoff.
How does kindergarten timing affect long-term academic success?
Research consistently shows that being among the oldest students in a grade provides advantages that can persist throughout school. Older kindergarteners tend to have better academic performance, higher graduation rates, and increased college attendance. The maturity difference between the youngest and oldest students in a classroom can be nearly a full year—significant when you're only five years old.