Full-day kindergarten programs did not survive the recession in some states, where districts reduced them to half-day programs in light of severe funding cuts. Now, with rising tax revenues and falling unemployment rates, the restoration of full-day kindergarten is back on the agenda. However, now that funds are available, is restoring full-day kindergarten the right choice? Some districts are considering adding half-day junior kindergarten instead of extending kindergarten to a full day. A junior kindergarten program focuses on preparing children for the academic rigors they'll face in kindergarten. It can serve four-year-olds who are on schedule to enter kindergarten, or five-year-olds who are simply not yet ready for the challenges of kindergarten--academically or emotionally. The author stresses that junior kindergarten may be an effective strategy for preparing young learners for success.