Anonymous wrote:We are keeping my 3yo home this year with a nanny. I could do the same next fall, but should I seriously consider applying for private preschool?

I think so. We err on the side of being extremely cautious and kept our kids home for almost 7 months. Finally, we had to send them back in order to get any work done and we felt guilty and nervous. But they are so much happier and (most) schools are being very careful. Now we wish we had sent them back sooner!

Half-day is fine. You really just want them to get used to being in a group situation and learn all the appropriate "social" skills for kindergarten -- how to follow rules, stand in line, wait their turn, listen to the teacher and follow instructions, etc... Don't worry about the academics.

I might, but I don't think there's anything wrong with keeping a 4yo home/with a nanny.

My 4.5yo is in a half-day program (5 days/week) right now and it's great. They go to the park with their nanny and play outside with other kids in the afternoon.