If this helps -
I felt my dd really should have skipped Kindergarten and in hindsight could have really started school in 2nd grade. In fact both her Kindy teacher and 2nd Grade teacher have said she could have easily done the academic work and probably should have skipped but she is very shy and has a hard time making friends. The school also has a policy of not accelarating or retaining for that matter. As I have said before 1st Grade was a disaster but 2nd is going beautifully. It really seems to depend on the teacher. Sorry I don't have any hindsight for you but I must admit that some of the school's social development issues with my dd were warranted. Although I do wonder if she would have fewer social issues in a class with kids who are where she is. To end my circular discussion my dd is not very extreme and with a really good teacher can thrive in her current grade. How do you feel about the teachers? Can you participate in the class selection for your child?