Parents Alert: Know the Right Age to Send Your Child to Play School So They Feel Secure and Happy

Enrolling a child in school for the first time is one of the most emotional and important decisions for parents. While choosing the right play school often involves careful consideration of safety, environment and teaching quality, one crucial factor is frequently overlooked — the child’s age.

Sending a child to play school too early may lead to emotional distress, separation anxiety and discomfort. On the other hand, enrolling them at the right age helps ensure a smoother transition, emotional security and better learning outcomes.

Paediatrician Dr Nimisha Arora explains what parents should know before taking this big step.

“Are We Late?” — A Common Question Among Parents

In a recent Instagram video, Dr Arora shared that many parents approach her with concerns like:
“Our child is two-and-a-half years old, but we haven’t sent them to school yet. Our neighbour enrolled their child at just 18 months. Are we too late?”

According to the doctor, this anxiety is extremely common and stems from FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), where parents feel pressured when they see other children starting school early.

Why Three Years Is the Ideal Age for Play School

Dr Arora says that three years of age is generally the most suitable time to introduce a child to play school.

At this age:

• A child’s language and communication skills are more developed
• Children can express basic needs to teachers
• They can share school experiences with parents
• Teachers can better understand and guide them

Reduced Separation Anxiety

From a psychological and emotional standpoint, three-year-olds are more prepared to spend time away from their parents.
“By this age, separation anxiety reduces significantly, and children are more open to socialising with peers,” Dr Arora explains.

Better Learning and Structured Growth

Children at this stage are highly energetic and curious. With the right school environment, their energy can be channelled positively.

Play school helps:

• Improve social skills
• Encourage independent thinking
• Provide structured routines
• Support faster learning through exposure

Toilet Training and Physical Readiness

Another important factor is physical preparedness.
“By around three years, most children are toilet trained, reducing the risk of urinary infections and constipation,” the paediatrician notes. This makes daily school routines much easier and healthier for the child.

When Earlier Admission May Be Considered

Dr Arora adds that in certain situations — such as nuclear families or when a child has excessive screen time — enrolling a child slightly earlier than three years may be considered without guilt.

However, she emphasises that every child is different, and readiness should be assessed individually rather than by comparison.

Expert Advice to Parents

“There is no race when it comes to childhood education. Emotional comfort, happiness and readiness matter more than early admission,” Dr Arora concludes.

Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical or educational advice. Parents are advised to consult experts for personalised guidance.