I imagine that it would be hard for a child to transition into full time at the age of 5, if they had not attended anything previously. My daughter went to "4K" 2 1/2 days per week last year and will attend Kindergarten full time starting next week. Although I did not have to "pay" for 4K as it is public, I would have wanted her to do SOMETHING. Social interaction is a huge part of growing up. Then keep in mind that children's basic habits, personality, and human behavior are almost fully formed by the time they are 5 years old. It is important for children to interact and play with other children. Is there something you can do inbetween now and Kindergarten? My son is 3 1/2 now. He is home this year, will do half day (8am-11:30am) 4K next year at 4, and will go to Kindergarten when he is 5.