At what stage of the lifespan does formal schooling begin?

The correct answer is that formal schooling begins in childhood. This stage typically encompasses a range of ages, starting around the ages of 5 to 6 years, when children typically enter primary school. During childhood, children develop foundational skills in various subjects, including literacy and numeracy, and begin their formal education journey. This development is crucial as it also aligns with their cognitive, social, and emotional growth, providing the structure and support needed for lifelong learning.

In contrast, infancy refers to the earliest period of a child's life, primarily focusing on physical and sensory development rather than formal education. Adolescence is characterized by the phase of life when individuals transition into adulthood and often involve more specialized education or vocational training beyond the foundational years. Adulthood generally signifies the period of life where individuals are often engaged in their careers or higher education pursuits, rather than the initiation of formal schooling. Thus, it is clear that the childhood stage is foundational for the start of formal educational experiences.