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Home › Articles › Development › Is Your 2-Year-Old Too Young for School?

Is Your 2-Year-Old Too Young for School?

Knowing Your Tiny Scholar

By Lisa A. Goldstein

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When Devin Woodrow started preschool at the age of 2, she barely talked. Within 30 days, her vocabulary increased. Her parents initially enrolled her for only three days a week, but within 60 days, they put her in full-time because it was so amazing to see her interact with students and her confidence blossom.

Almost a year later, Devin speaks in full sentences, is interactive with other kids and has emerged as a leader. She knows her alphabet, colors, shapes and opposites and has learned to be proud of her artwork.

Her mom, Michele Tell of Las Vegas, Nev., says there's only one downside to sending her to a specialized 2-year-old program. "She's so excited to go to school in the morning that she won't eat," Tell says.

Devin's experience drastically differs from that of Sheri Menelli's daughter, who was in preschool from the time she was 18 months to almost 2. Menelli, of Carlsbad, Calif., says it was a disaster. Her daughter cried and was clingy. "I thought it would make her more well-rounded and teach her to play with other kids," Menelli says. "She was shy and not ready. I really regret that I did it and I wish I had stopped taking her earlier. She was miserable and I didn't realize that she wouldn't just get used to it."

Early Preschool Pros and Cons

If parents are considering putting their 18- to 24-month-old child in preschool, which experience are they likely to get? It depends on the child. For some, 18 to 24 months is too young, while others might be more ready.

"The first years of a child's life are a crucial development period, and children who are nurtured and stimulated during these years are much more prepared for reading, math and social development when it's time for kindergarten," says Kim Means, senior director for accreditation at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). "Parents are a child's first teachers, but quality preschool programs are also important. I don't think there is a 'magic' chronological age for when children should enter preschool. Parents know their children best."


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