
What Age Should Children Start School?

What Age Should Children Start School?
Parents often ask: “When should my child begin school?” It’s one of the most important decisions in early childhood education. At Chroma ELA, we believe school readiness is about more than age—it’s about building confidence, independence, and joy in learning.
School Starting Ages Around the World
Across the globe, children begin school at different ages:
In the United States, kindergarten usually starts at age 5.
In the United Kingdom, many children begin formal schooling as early as 4.
In Finland, school doesn’t start until 7, with early years focused on play and exploration.
These differences show there’s no universal “right age”—what matters most is whether your child is developmentally ready.
Beyond Age: What Readiness Looks Like
Readiness for school comes from a combination of social, emotional, and physical milestones. A child may be ready when they can:
Follow simple instructions and daily routines
Play well with peers, taking turns and sharing
Feel comfortable spending time away from parents
Sustain energy for structured activities throughout the day
Every child develops at their own pace, and that’s perfectly natural.
How Chroma ELA Supports School Readiness
At Chroma ELA, our programs are designed to give children the foundation they need for a smooth and successful transition into school. Through guided play, early academics, and nurturing teacher support, children develop:
Early literacy and numeracy skills
Social-emotional growth
Curiosity and creativity
Confidence in group learning settings
We partner closely with families to ensure each child’s unique readiness journey is celebrated and supported.
Chroma ELA Locations
Families can access our trusted early learning programs across multiple communities in Georgia. Find a Chroma ELA near you:
Cherokee Academy by Chroma ELA
Chroma ELA of Johns Creek
Chroma ELA of Lawrenceville
Chroma ELA of Lilburn
Chroma ELA of Marietta
Chroma ELA of Roswell
Chroma ELA of Ellenwood
Chroma ELA of West Cobb
Chroma ELA of Pleasant Hill
Chroma ELA of Satellite
Chroma ELA of Jonesboro
Chroma ELA of Rivergreen
Chroma ELA of McDonough
Chroma ELA of South Cobb
Chroma ELA of Tyrone
Chroma ELA of Alpharetta
Final Thought
There isn’t a single answer to the question, “What age should children start school?” The key is readiness—not rushing, not delaying, but giving children the skills and confidence to thrive.
At Chroma ELA, we’re proud to help children and families take this important step, creating joyful early learning experiences that prepare them for a lifetime of success.
Chroma ELA — Where Early Learning Inspires Lifelong Growth.