Should I have my child skip a grade, and what are the pros and cons?

Grade-skipping (academic acceleration) is one of the most researched interventions for gifted children and generally shows positive academic and social outcomes when done thoughtfully. Good candidates are academically advanced across subjects (not just one area), socially mature, physically average-sized for the target grade, and emotionally ready for older peers. Potential downsides include social adjustment difficulties and gaps in skipped curriculum. Most research suggests accelerated students perform at least as well socially as their gifted peers who stay in grade. Consider alternatives like subject-specific acceleration or enrichment first. Work with your school's gifted coordinator and consult your pediatrician about your child's overall readiness.