Jillian, thats really disappointing to hear. I really do not understand why some education systems focus purely on academic skills, its not just about that, its about social and emotional readiness too. Academics can be learnt easily in no time. That is shown by the fact you look at a group of 3 y.o. kinder kids some can draw, some are only just scribbling and others have never picked up a pencil. By the end of 4 y.o. Kinder everyone can draw a picture of themselves (some more artistic than others of course) and every child can write their name or at least attempt it (even if it is all in upper case LOL). And the same goes for the start of prep. BUT you take a child who can't interact socially, can't say no when someone does something they don't like, can't function easily in larger groups etc (these are just some examples of some social skills necessary for school) then forcing them into that environment isn't going to help them to learn those skills instantly, in some cases it could be even more detrimental if they aren't feeling secure iykwim. I am really glad that the Victorian govt takes emotional and social maturity seriously when it comes to school enrolment. Luckily for Lachlan he has a wonderful mother who I'm sure will help him out in those ways and from the sounds of how amazing lochie is I'm sure he'll do fine. What worries me are people who don't have things like BellyBelly available to them, or community support.

Goodluck Ambah! Maybe you can get help from external sources like child psych/speech therapists etc like letters to the govt if you feel Aidyn isn't ready?

*hugs*
Cailin