08-05-2025
Kindergarten redshirting sparks debate
CLEVELAND (WJW) — As enrollment deadlines for kindergarten near, many parents are grappling with a tough question: Is their child ready — or should they wait another year?
Known as 'redshirting,' the practice of delaying kindergarten entry for children born close to school cutoff dates is gaining attention, especially among families with summer babies.
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'There is no one-size-fits-all answer,' said Parma City Schools Superintendent Charles Smialek. 'It really is dependent upon the child.'
Redshirting, a term originally used in athletics, now describes the choice many parents face when their child's birthday lands near district enrollment deadlines. While some districts require children to be five years old by August 1 to enroll, others, including Parma, extend the deadline to September 30.
'That gives parents more wiggle room,' Smialek explained. 'It's an individual decision, and there's no right answer.'
To help families navigate this challenge, some districts are stepping up with programs like Parma's Kindergarten Launch Academy and Boot Camp — early education initiatives designed to ease the transition for both students and parents.
Experts like Dr. Emily Mudd, a pediatric psychologist at Cleveland Clinic, emphasize the importance of 'kindergarten readiness' over age alone.
'Kindergarten readiness — that's what I would call it,' said Dr. Mudd. 'It's not just about age. It's about emotional, social, and cognitive development.'
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And while some kids may thrive jumping into school as soon as possible, others may benefit from waiting a year to gain confidence and maturity.
Regardless of the choice, Smialek says the focus is on support. 'We try to support them regardless of what decision they make.'
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