Is Your Child School-Ready?
Starting school is a big milestone, filled with pride and a bit of worry. School readiness isn't just about ABCs; it's about building confidence, independence, and adapting to routines. If you're wondering how to prepare your child, we've got tips to help make the transition smoother.
Read More
Your School Readiness Checklist!
Get school-ready without the stress! Our School Readiness Checklist offers simple, fun activities that fit into your daily routine to build your child's confidence and independence. Pop it on the fridge as a handy reminder, and get ready to celebrate every small win on your child's big school adventure.
Free DownloadHow Do I Know If My Child Is Ready for School?
Deciding when your child is ready for school can be tricky since readiness varies. Key signs include:
1
They show curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new things.
2
They can follow two to three-step instructions.
3
They are comfortable interacting with peers and can manage short separations from caregivers.
4
They can focus on a task for a short period (e.g., listening to a story or completing a puzzle).
5
They can express their needs verbally, such as saying when they're hungry or need help.
If unsure, school readiness assessments can guide your decision.
Important School Readiness Skills
School readiness refers to the set of developmental skills—social, emotional, physical, and cognitive—that children need to thrive in a school setting. It's not about whether your child already knows how to read or write, but rather if they are equipped to handle the structure and expectations of school.
Key school readiness skills include:
Social Skills
Sharing, taking turns, and interacting with peers and teachers.
Independence
Managing simple tasks like dressing themselves or packing their bag.
Physical Abilities
Having the fine motor skills to hold a pencil and the gross motor skills to run and play.
Cognitive Skills
Recognising letters, numbers, shapes, and following simple instructions.
Emotional Readiness
Coping with separation from parents and managing emotions in unfamiliar situations.
Each child develops at their own pace, so don't be concerned if your child is stronger in some areas and needs support in others.
Steps to Get Your Child School-Ready
Step 1
The Importance of Early Learning in School Readiness
If your child is in childcare, they're already gaining a head start on school readiness through play-based learning that builds social skills, confidence, and resilience. Activities like group play and story-time help ease the transition to a school routine.
Haven't explored childcare yet? It's the perfect time to check out centres with preschool/kindergarten programs.
Step 2
How to assess School Readiness?
Use our School Readiness Checklist to assess your child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills. Focus on strengthening any areas needing support with fun, everyday activities. It's not about perfection—just helping them build the confidence to grow and learn.
Read More >Step 3
Get your child prepared for school
Parents often wonder how to help their child get school-ready. Focus on key areas like promoting independence through tasks like packing their bag, sharing story-time to build a love for learning, and supporting social skills with playdates. Consistent routines can also boost confidence for this big step.
Read More >Step 4
Improve their school readiness skills
Preparing your little one for school can be exciting! Boost their readiness with fun, hands-on activities like crafts to develop fine motor skills or roleplay to build confidence. Simple steps can make the transition smooth and positive.
Read More >