The second group is often poor students who want to avoid the pressures of school work. You can work with teachers, counselors and nurses to develop strategies to cope with symptoms that crop up at school. A child who gets too much attention and concern when he's sick may also fake illness to stay at home and get more of it. Parents shouldn't ask a child how he feels before school unless they notice signs that may indicate an illness, such as looking pale or flushed, swollen eyes, etc. Some 5 year-olds may not be ready for kindergarten.
Many teachers report they see the most learning problems with the youngest children in their class.
As a result, they may begin to feel badly about themselves. Holding a child back is better than setting her up for failure. Many schools offer pre-kindergarten screening using scientific methods. If the school doesn't, then ask for a referral to a testing agency. A physician can also assess a child's physical and developmental readiness.