OP here. I really appreciate the insight. I think we will go ahead and start preparing. Phew. That means now doing lots of searches about this process! I think I was also (selfishly) hoping to avoid the giant application and touring rigmarole for one more year. But the idea that he would be the "new kid" really hits home for me. I will speak with the head of the school during our upcoming meeting as well - that's great advice and I appreciate it!

We stayed at our preschool for pre-K and waited to apply for K. Our child had a great pre-K year at the preschool the preschool did a great job prepping him for K. That being said, if I had to do it all over again, we probably would have switched schools for pre-K. My main reasons are (1) admissions are more competitive for K since there simply aren't as many slots and (2) while there were plenty of other new kids in K, most of the kids has been at the school for pre-K, so DS felt like the new kid. The transition wasn't too tough but I do think it would have been easier starting a school at the same time the majority of the kids were starting.

We were in the same predicament but ultimately decided to go the pre-K route. We absolutely loved the preschool but sadly knew that our DC would have a better shot, in terms of numbers, of getting in at the pre-K level at certain schools (including the one we thought would be the best fit). What ultimately tipped the scales was asking the head of the preschool as to whether our DC was ready to move on or not. We were told DC was ready to move on, and although pre-K has just started, DC does seem to have transitioned (summer camp at the new school was definitely a big help on this front).

The fact is it doesn't really matter. However, my personal preference has been to start at the beginning. For me, it has less to do with "lifer" status - which many on this board may think is important. My kids just seem to take a little longer to get adjusted and I think starting at the beginning gives them a better appreciation for the school and the experience. Others may point out that it is their belief that there are more "spots" at the first entry year.

Our son is in a preschool we love. This is his second year there and he loves it, so my temptation is to keep him there for a a until he is ready for K. However, I see that several schools start their programs at the pre-K level, and I am wondering if people chose one way or another and could speak to their decisions (pros and cons). Do you think it's better to go ahead and get them in exactly when the program starts (i.e. Pre-K) or does it matter? I'm guessing it might vary by school, but I'm still interested in the responses. I haven't spoken with other parents in his class yet to see what they are going to do, but application season starts soon so I'd like to get on the ball if we're going in that direction!

Anyway, I'd love to hear on both sides how this worked out for you and any insight you might have. Thanks!