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My eldest son started kindergarten this year, and imagine my surprise when at the parent orientation his teacher informed us that he would have homework every night. I couldn't believe it. When we were kids kindergarten was like going to a play date, there was no actual work involved, let alone homework. It was also later explained to us that the kindergarten curriculum of today is what used to be the first grade curriculum. Again, I couldn't believe it. Children at the very young age of five (some are only four years old) are expected to know and do so much.
Lucky for my own son, he did attend a very strong preschool program because I wanted him to get used to being out of the house. Not all children have the opportunity to attend preschool programs, however. Also, not all preschool programs are the same. Preschool programs within childcare centers tend to operate under the same principles and philosophies of the center. As someone who works in childcare, trust me when I say that these type of programs are not adequate in regards to school preparation. The early childhood education theory is that "children learn by doing." Many childcare centers are not allowed to force a child to do anything or to teach the children through actual instruction.
I have seen children start school this year and struggle due to lack of preparation. They do not know basic concepts, and yet are expected to function at what used to be the first grade level. Many of these children also come from homes or childcare programs where sitting down for more than five minutes at a time is not possible. Then they are thrown into school and expected to sit at desks, pay attention, and do actual work (such as worksheets).
A "universal preschool" program will improve academic achievement. It would almost be like taking the place of what kindergarten used to be. The program would teach children the basic concepts that kindergarten teachers expect them to already know, and it would improve on their ability to sit still and pay attention. If nothing else, a "universal preschool" program would definitely improve the school readiness of many children.

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