Study: Holding Kids Back from Kindergarten Has Limited Benefits

Experts say the academic advantages of 'red-shirting' often disappear by third grade.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:53pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of a solitary child sitting on a bench, with the image blurred and washed in warm, soft colors, conveying a sense of isolation and the emotional impact of academic decisions.The practice of 'red-shirting' kindergarteners may offer limited academic benefits, according to a new study.Los Angeles Today

A new report finds that the practice of 'red-shirting' or holding back children from starting kindergarten for an extra year offers few long-term benefits. While older students may initially have an academic edge, the advantages often even out by the third grade.

Why it matters

Red-shirting has become a common practice among some parents who want to give their children an academic boost by allowing them an extra year of development before starting school. However, this study suggests that the short-term gains may not translate to lasting improvements in student performance.

The details

The report analyzed data on academic performance and found that while older kindergarten students may initially score higher on tests, those advantages typically disappear by the third grade as younger students catch up. Experts say the practice of red-shirting can also have social and emotional impacts, as older students may feel out of place with their younger classmates.

  • The report was published on April 3, 2026.

The players

Los Angeles Times

The newspaper that originally reported on the study.

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The takeaway

This study suggests that parents should carefully weigh the potential costs and limited benefits of holding their children back from starting kindergarten on time. The academic edge often fades, while the social and emotional impacts of being older than classmates may be more lasting.