The study tested the hypothesis that in a group of 188 elementary school children labeled gifted, there would be more children who were older when they entered first grade than those who were younger first grade entries. Analyses of data revealed significantly fewer early entering and more later entering gifted children. (SB)

Analysis of birth dates and school entry ages of 188 gifted children (grades five through eight) revealed that over 60 percent of the Ss were late entering school. Results supported earlier studies in which a large percentage of learning disabled children were found to be early entering. (CL)

First grade entry ages were determined for all learning disabled (LD) children in grades 1 through 12 in a large special education cooperative. The results suggested the possibility that children who enter first grade early may be more likely to be labeled LD than children who enter when they are older. (Author)

Birthdates and educational histories of special education students (N=291) were analyzed to determine how school entrance age affected placement in special education programs. Analyses were significant for learning disabled and emotionally disturbed, but not mildly mentally retarded students, suggesting that parents and educators must insist on…