What do you think about preschool?

[Taz_Zoee]

Oh, I just love this thread! Although I do not have children, and who knows if I ever will, but I did work in the child care industry for 12 years. So of course, I am a strong believer in preschool. I won't repeat everything everyone else has already said.
Some of our friends have children that are not in preschool. One boy is almost 3 years old and can't even look at a stranger. I know that could be good in some ways, but he cries his head off when anyone tries to hold him, touch him or talk to him. However, he is a very smart child. He knows his letters, colors, shapes and animals (sounds). So for him preschool would be a great thing for socialization.
Another of our friends have a boy who will be 5 in January. He is a very social child. He'll go up and talk to anyone without fear. He's got a great sense of humor and LOVES to play video games. One time I was playing video games with him and told him to press the triangle. He said - the red one or the green one? There is only one triangle on the control. There are different shapes and each is a different color. He knew the color but not the shape. He also didn't know the letters or numbers at all. So this child would benefit in preschool in an academic way.
So that's my two cents worth. All of this is pretty funny since I never went to preschool as a child.

ETA: If I'm not mistaken Kindergarten is still not required (at least in California). Although, everyone goes.