We got trapped in the age deadline thing when our ds was pre-K also. Is there any chance you can find a preschool that doesn't have rigidly defined academic curriculums? Our kids all went to Montessori preschool and were able to choose their own work with individual overall guidance from their teachers to help them progress. It was very different from a traditional academic environment, but I felt like it gave my kids the opportunity to nurture their creativity and imaginations while giving them a sense of self-confidence in not having to sit in a group and be told what to do, which in turn kept them eager and excited about "school".
polarbear
