What age is the best time to start considering boarding school for my child?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a good rule of thumb is to start thinking seriously about it by sixth or seventh grade. That gives you time to research, visit schools, and prep for applications without feeling like you’re running a sprint in flip-flops. Some kids start boarding in ninth grade, others jump in earlier for middle school. The key is knowing when your child is ready: emotionally, socially, and academically. If they’re curious, independent, and asking for more challenge or adventure, boarding school might be a great fit. Start early, plan ahead, and treat it like a journey instead of a mad dash. And don’t worry, researching schools doesn’t mean you’ve committed to packing bags just yet.