For many children across the United States, turning 5 is the age of majority. Now they are old enough to go to school! They can attend kindergarten, and now they are big kids! No more preschool, nap, or blankets. It is the great moment.

For prospective Memphis school students, their first day of kindergarten may have to wait a bit. Legislators are considering a change in the necessary date of birth a child must have in order to attend kindergarten in all Tennessee schools, including Memphis schools. Currently, the deadline is September 30. The proposal would change that date to September 1.

While many children will be disappointed (as will their parents), it is a good idea. Students who attend Memphis schools have high standards to meet and, in some cases, starting school too early can set them back. They may struggle throughout their careers in Memphis schools, and starting a little later when they are more mature can make a difference. This is especially true for students hoping to attend Memphis schools, which mostly serve urban Memphis, Tennessee. Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds have been shown to be less ready for school than their wealthier counterparts. His parents may have two jobs and have little time or energy left to prepare Junior to start a kindergarten program in Memphis.

Regardless of whether or not this is applicable, it is a fact that children who start the school year in Memphis schools younger than their peers (for example, Sally’s birthday is September 28, when she will be 5 years old. school begins (Judy’s birthday was January 28, and she has been 5 years old for more than 6 months.) may have a more difficult time learning to “go to school” than others who are older and more mature.

Emotional maturity is perhaps the most important thing to consider. A child who is not ready to start kindergarten in Memphis City may have a more difficult time adjusting to the new life of a “school boy”. Crying, separation anxiety, discipline or behavior problems, and even using the bathroom and tying shoes should be considered for these future Memphis school students.

Of course, there are always exceptions to all the rules, and there are four-year-olds who are much more mature than their five-year-old peers. This can be due to several things; the gender, birth order, and complete educational level of their parents all contribute to a child’s social and emotional maturity. Even the age of the parents, as well as the influence of the extended family, can affect a child’s level of maturity.

It seems to me that the best solution for kindergarten students in Memphis schools would be to set an optional date. Perhaps students could be admitted to kindergarten if they meet the September 1 birthday requirement, and a selection process could be instituted for those prospective Memphis school students who may be ready to enter kindergarten. in Memphis schools but having their birthday later in September. .