Kindergarten isn't what it used to be...

An excellent preschool experience builds a strong foundation for learning in elementary school.  20 years ago kindergarten focused on practicing social skills, memorizing ABC's and 123's, and learning to tie your shoes.  Today kindergartners learn how to read "real" books, write complete stories, and even divide (called sharing equally in kindergarten)!  When the No Child Left Behind Act began schools pushed students harder in order to be successful.  What was taught in first grade 10 years ago is now taught in kindergarten.

The Achievement Gap

Have you ever heard of the 'achievement gap'?  The achievement gap is the difference between the most academically advanced child and the most novice learner in a single classroom.  Studies show that if a child falls behind two years in a row it is nearly impossible for the child to learn the skills needed quickly enough to  ever be considered academically on grade level again.   

Because children enter kindergarten with various rates of knowledge the achievement gap is already prevalent after just a few months of school.