<p>Our pediatrician was primarily concerned about our kids socially. S was rather at a loss figuring out how to play with other kids informally when he was in preschool. He was also small and wiry in stature. The pediatrician and we figured he could benefit from the extra time to grow physically and socially, even though academically, he was ready for kindergarten at age 3. We had no regrets holding him back. D was fine socially, but we really think S benefitted from having one more year of JR K instead of rushing to K. We also wanted them to remain 2 years apart in school since chronoligically they were 2 years apart. She was also petite. We feel she also really benefitted from that extra year in JR K.</p>
<p>I agree there is no one size fits all and it’s ideal if the parents and others knowledgable about the child with his/her best interests can confer about the pros and cons to reach the decision that seems best for the individual child. Physically large children often benefit from NOT being held back, so they won’t be even larger than peers. Academics and social aspects are important other considerations.</p>