Private kindergarten: what age is best to start?

When a baby grows and becomes more independent, every parent eventually faces the big question: when is the right time to start kindergarten?

Is three “already time,” or should you “let them stay with mom a bit longer”?In this article, we explain from what age early education is truly beneficial, comfortable, and safe.

Legal Regulations

According to the Russian Federal Law on Education (№ 273-FZ):

• A child may receive preschool education from 2 months to 8 years.
• The state must provide a place starting from age 3.

Private schools set their own age requirements.

At CIS Gorki, enrollment starts at 2.5 years, because this is the age when a child is ready for gentle socialization, sensory activities, and early play-based learning.

Pre-Nursery (2.5 years) A soft start and the first step into a group environment. Children are just beginning to learn how to be with others.

Development focuses on:

• Sensory exploration: water, sand, light, textures - “discovering the world with your hands”
• First words and vocabulary building
• Trust in the teacher and familiarity with routine
• Early independence: choosing an activity, tidying toys, dressing with help

Why it matters: This becomes the foundation of confidence - no pressure, only play.

Nursery (3 years) Emotions, speech, and understanding “me and others.” Children begin to interact more actively with peers.

Development focuses on:

• Speech: phrases, questions, small stories
• Emotional awareness: “I’m angry,” “I want,” “I’m happy,” and the ability to express feelings
• Social rules: taking turns, sharing, agreeing
• Imagination and early role-play

Why it matters: At 3, children develop the ability to understand others - a key skill for friendship and smooth adaptation.

Reception (4 years) Logic through play and first “academic sparks.” Children can focus longer and compare, analyze, and reason.

Development focuses on:

• Early mathematics (EYFS): counting, shapes, sizes, patterns
• Speech: retelling and discussion
• Teamwork and listening to others
• Gross and fine motor skills: dancing, ball games, tracing, mosaics

Why it matters: Age 4 marks the beginning of logical thinking - still fully play-based.

Year 1 (5 years) A gentle transition to Key Stage 1. Children still play, but they’re ready for more structure.

Development focuses on:

• Phonics and early literacy: sounds, letters, first reading
• Early international mathematics: counting to 20+, comparing, simple models
• Science: simple experiments and “why?” questions
• Social maturity: expressing opinions, working in pairs
• Independence: completing tasks from start to finish

Why it matters: This stage prepares children for Year 2 without stress - learning through curiosity and exploration.

Year 2 (6 years) The full start of Key Stage 1. Children learn consciously and confidently.

Development focuses on:

• Reading short texts and understanding meaning
• Writing simple sentences
• KS1 mathematics: numbers to 100, addition/subtraction, measurement
• Science: observing, forming hypotheses, drawing basic conclusions
• Global Perspectives: listening, discussing, problem-solving
• Emotional self-regulation: patience, group work

Why it matters: With the right program, age 6 becomes a natural and easy beginning of school learning.

Benefits of starting preschool early

We discussed early childhood education with Early Years teacher Danielle Blake:

“I believe children learn best when learning is joyful and alive - not a checklist of tasks. In my classroom, every child can be themselves: I observe their interests and help turn learning into meaningful play.

My experience in different countries has taught me that there is no ‘universal child’ - each is unique. So I design the day to meet the needs of children in my group. For some, that means quiet play; for others, active exploration.

My goal is not just to teach facts but to inspire a lifelong love of learning.”

Individual attention is one of the key advantages of a private kindergarten.

At CIS Gorki, teachers greet children at the door and instantly notice:

Who is shy? Who is sleepy? Who is excited?

Who needs a gentle transition, and who is ready to “build a rocket” right away?

Teachers use modern EYFS practices - learning:

• through play and exploration
• through sensory experiences
• through music and movement
• through dialogue and discussion
• through discovering why things happen

Example:

During a “Weather” topic, children conduct an experiment: They place ice on the windowsill and on the table and observe where it melts faster. They make predictions, compare results, discuss their ideas - and celebrate discoveries. These small investigations become the foundation of future thinking.

Checklist for parents: How to choose a private kindergarten by age:

1. Assess your child’s needs

If your child is active - choose a center with many zones and free play.

If calmer - look for small groups, gentle adaptation, and quiet spaces.

2. Study the educational programme

It should not be “general” but age-specific.

3. Visit the kindergarten and speak with teachers

What your child feels in the first five minutes is extremely important.

FAQ

From what age can a child attend a private kindergarten?

Most private kindergartens accept children from 1.5 years.

At CIS -  from 2.5 years, which aligns with international EYFS standards.

Is the government required to provide a kindergarten place from age 3?

Yes, this is defined by Federal Law № 273-FZ.

What documents are required to enroll in a private kindergarten?

• birth certificate
• medical record
• vaccination certificate
• parent application form

We invite you to a trial day at CIS Gorki

See the classes in action, meet our teachers, and let your child try the new environment. You will instantly understand how well the Early Years program fits your child.