Article Source: https://theconversation.com/how-can-i-tell-if-my-child-is-ready-to-start-school-next-year

At this time of year many parents and carers are asking a familiar set of questions.
Should I send my child to school next year? Are they ready? Would it be better to hold them back?
These are complex questions. Here are some factors for parents to consider.

You need to be at school by the age 6

In Australia, primary and secondary school are compulsory between the ages of 6 and 16, however there are varying cut-off dates between states and territories.

For example, children in NSW can start school the year they turn five if their birthday is before July 31, and must be enrolled before they turn six.

In the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria the cut-off date is April 30, in South Australia it is May 1, in Queensland and the Northern Territory it is June 30.

This means a class in the first year of school can have a big difference in ages. Some will start school while they are still four, others could be six.

So depending on when your child’s birthday is, you may have a choice to send them this year or next.

The cost-of-living question

Although the school start decision is ultimately placed at the feet of parents, government policies and support are essential considerations for families.

Some parents cannot wait to send their children to school because it means they will no longer need to pay childcare fees.

As the cost of living continues to be a concern for many Australian families, parents will no doubt be comparing the ongoing cost of childcare with the lack of fees in the public school system.

However for some, the July 2023 boost to the childcare subsidy may mean school is no longer a radically cheaper option.

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