Bella - you might remember we had the exact same conundrum with DS - he will be 4yrs9m when he starts prep. This time last year I would not have been prepared to send him, now - definitely. He is so so ready, had matured remarkably this year, and is just such a nice genuine and likeable kid I feel very comfortable that he will make friends with ease and enjoy school (he cant wait to go)

With regard to your DDs cousins - I know I've only met them once, but they are vivacious girls and VERY outgoing, so your DD would seem sensitive compared to them, but I think this is to her benefit. DS is also similar, he is a lover, not a fighter, he always removes himself from the situation when kids are getting rough, naughty or to OTT. I actually think this shows maturity beyond his years - and sets him up well to 'do the right thing' when other kids are mean or nasty. As a result he doesn't need to defend himself, he just knows to remove himself and seek the company of others - is DD like that at all? As that might identify that she is ready socially to deal with situations like that. He also knows its ok to talk to the grown ups (teachers, carers) if other kids are being mean or hurting him. He's also really good at verbalising "Stop, I dont like that" if necessary. I've witnessed him saying it to a kid who was niggling him at a birthday party and I was really pleased that he could handle the situation well (for a 4yo)

The principal of the school DS is going to gave us a 'School Readiness Checklist", it was pretty comprehensive and when we completed it for DS it really helped put into perspective what to look for in regards to his readiness. Wan't me to dig it up and email it through?