I remember thinking that it was such a HUGE issue at the time - that everyone would be talking/gossiping/judging our decision to accelerate. But it turned out to be such a non-issue. A couple of parents actually approached me, but more out of curiosity than anything else. Why did you accelerate was best answered with a "coz we're looking for a better fit" or something vague like that rather than a detailed response. In fact, in most situations the less said, the better.
In terms of friendships, we spoke to the girls about having friends of all different ages, sizes, grades, etc. and that being in the same class as someone didn't determine who you could be friends with.
Hope your transition goes well... jojo
