The early identification of children not yet ready to begin the formal task of classroom learning has been increasingly emphasized by educators, psychologists, pediatricians and parents. The pediatrician, as the professional concerned with monitoring children's growth and development, is uniquely suited to participate in the identification of such children. Effective participation requires recognition of the various factors influencing educational readiness, as well as the manner in which they fit together into a whole greater than the sum of its parts. Possible pediatric roles include screening children for educational readiness, as well as clinical problem-solving when issues or concerns arise.
