New research has shown that sending children to preparatory classes before primary school negatively affects their cognitive skills and mental health later in life. According to the study, even if your child is gifted and a fast learner, sending them to school at an early stage can impact their mental health.
Researchers recommend that parents consider the age of their children in relation to their peers in kindergarten, as significant differences can affect the child's mental health. Younger children compared to their peers tend to perform poorly in the classroom and require more special attention than their counterparts.
During the study, the research team used data collected from a previous study called "Supporting Teachers and Children in Schools." This study involved 2,075 primary school students (ages five to nine) from 80 different schools in Devon, England.
The study included a series of questionnaires posed to parents and teachers, which helped the team assess negative emotional episodes experienced by children, such as anxiety and fear, weaker relationships with peers, behavioral issues, and focus.
The results indicated that younger children were more prone to poor mental health compared to their peers. This may be because keeping up with older peers can be somewhat stressful at an early age. The issue was particularly pronounced among children with learning difficulties and those born prematurely.
These findings may provide some insights for parents regarding when to enroll a child in a formal educational environment that does not harm their health. According to experts, the age of three is an ideal time for children to begin their studies, taking into account several factors to consider before sending them to school, including potty training, the ability to spend time away from their parents, and their capacity to listen to others, as reported by the Times of India.
