The year between 5 and 6 is one of considerable growth for a children. Generally, it's not really possible to see who will be ready to move on to first grade until the spring of the kindergarten year. There are always exceptions to this rule, however. And when someone writes in with a situation that seems as if it IS an exception, I tell them so. It will give him time to mature and he'll get to be on the older end of the age continuum in his class, which is the opposite of his status at home.
Children are all different, and each one needs to be looked at as an individual.
In general, I believe that children should be held back mainly for social reasons in the early years. I hope this answers your question. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned about your health or that of a child's, please consult your family's health care provider immediately and do not wait for a response from our professionals. Inc. Legal Disclaimer.