Page 146 - The Intentional Parent

You certainly have a bright and eager three-year-old. It is always so much of an advantage when children are naturally motivated to learn. In your daughter's case, you will have to be sure that you don't push her so hard that she burns out early. Some people have had a little success teaching children under the age of four to read, but many of these children later lose what they gain. It's almost as if the motivation was there but the readiness was not.
Flash cards might be a little too structured and regimented. Start your child off with some magnetic letters that stick onto a board. See if she can recognize and remember them. If her attention seems to wander, or she loses interest, don't push her any further. You don't want to risk frustrating her. Let her set the pace for your "reading" lessons. Always provide her with as many books as she will show interest in. While I am not a really big fan of teaching chil-your kids' teachers are coming from. Hopefully, more times than not, you will find that teachers are compassionate, dedicated human beings. You might occasionally find, however, that a teacher does not have your child's best interest in mind, and then you will have to act. Here is a collection of concerns that parents have shared with me about school, teachers, homework, and friends.
HOLDING BACK FOR KINDERGARTEN
Our son Josh will be technically able to start kindergarten this September, but my husband and I have some concerns about this. He will be one of the youngest children in his class, and he is still a bit immature. He cries easily and is still quite clingy. Should we let him go to all-day kindergarten and hope he matures during the year, or should we hold him back so that he can mature at home?
The Intentional Parent by Peter J. Favaro, Ph.D. 146