Preschool classes go by age, but the rules can be confusing. Here’s a simple way to work out the right class, and what each year is like.
How the class is decided
In Maharashtra, the class depends on your child’s age on 31 December of the school year. The school year starts in June. Under the state’s rule, children start Class 1 at 6 years of age, so working backwards:
- Sr. KG: 5 years old by 31 December
- Jr. KG: 4 years old by 31 December
- Nursery: 3 years old by 31 December
- Playgroup: about 2 years old by 31 December (many start at around 1½)
The quickest way to check is our class finder: enter the date of birth and it shows the class for this year and next. The school always confirms.
What each year is like
- Playgroup: learning to be happy away from home. Songs, colours, shapes, lots of free play and first friendships.
- Nursery: more talking and questions. Numbers to 10, letter sounds, stories, art and playing together.
- Jr. KG: letters and numbers start to click. Phonics, writing letters, counting to 50, simple science.
- Sr. KG: getting ready for big school. Reading short sentences, writing words, early maths and confidence.
My child is “in between”. What should I do?
Children born between about September and December are often right on the line. A few things to think about:
- Talking and independence matter more than letters. Can your child say what they need, use the toilet with a little help, and play near other children? Those are the real signs of readiness.
- Pushing ahead rarely helps. A child who is among the youngest in class can feel rushed. Being among the oldest usually means more confidence.
- Ask to visit both classes. Teachers can tell a lot from watching your child play for half an hour.
Can my child join in the middle of the year?
Yes, if there’s a seat. Children who join later settle just as well: teachers help them catch up gently, and the routines are the same every day.
Not sure? Message us your child’s date of birth and we’ll help you decide.