It’s an exciting time- whether your child is moving on from home, a childminder, preschool or nursery. There will be new routines, friendships and lots of opportunities to grow. But will all these changes, it’s completely natural to feel unsure about what ‘school ready’ really means.
What does 'school ready' mean for your child?
Being ready for school isn't about knowing the alphabet or sitting still for hours. It's about continuing to develop the day-to-day skills that help children settle, connect and take part in school life.
Here are some key skills I think your child may already be developing:
- Confidence to try new things and explore
- Independence with things like going to the toilet or putting on their coat
- Communication - being able to talk about their needs and ask questions
- Social skills like sharing, taking turns and making friends
- Physical skills like holding a pencil or running, jumping and moving around with confidence.
Not all children will be confident in every area straight away and that's absolutely fine. Every child grows and learns at their own pace and the school environment will support that journey.
Learning through play is the best way to prepare children for school. Watch our starting school video or the help your child page on our website.
What does 'School Ready' mean for us as parents?
Feeling school ready yourself helps your child feel secure and confident too. As a parent, you might be feeling a mixture of emotions - pride, worry, excitement and maybe a few nerves. That's completely normal. Preparing yourself can make the whole experience more positive for everyone.
Here are a few things you can do to help feel more prepared:
- Look on your child’s school website so you know what to expect
- Talk about the school day with your child in a positive and relaxed way
- Plan a routine for morning and evenings to reduce stress
- Get connected with other parents and local groups for support
- Allow space for your child to ask questions
Remember what's important?
- Small steps make a big difference
- Learning through play is wonderful
- You are not doing it alone
For practical advice, tips and downloadable resources for families and early year providers, visit how to help your child develop and learn on our website. With your support, your child will thrive in their new environment and be excited for what's ahead.