School Readiness

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1. Encourage Independence

Help your child feel confident about doing basic things on their own:

• Toileting: Ensure they can use the toilet independently and wash their hands afterward.

• Dressing: Practice putting on coats, shoes (preferably Velcro), and managing zippers or buttons.

• Lunch and snacks: Teach them to open their lunchbox, food packets, or drink bottles.

• Tidying up: Encourage them to help pack away toys or books after using them.

🗣️ 2. Build Social Skills

Reception involves lots of interaction. You can help by:

• Encouraging sharing and taking turns in play.

• Practicing listening and following simple instructions.

• Helping them express needs clearly, like “I need the toilet” or “I don’t understand.”

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3. Develop Early Literacy and Numeracy

You don’t need to “teach” formally, but exposure helps:

• Reading together daily, asking questions about the story or pictures.

• Practicing name recognition and, if ready, writing their first name.

• Counting objects, singing number songs, spotting shapes and colours.

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4. Support Fine Motor Skills

These skills help with writing, cutting, and manipulating classroom tools:

• Drawing, colouring, cutting with child-safe scissors.

• Playing with building blocks, threading beads, or using playdough.

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5. Establish Routines

Reception follows a schedule, so:

• Get into a regular bedtime and wake-up routine.

• Practice morning routines for getting dressed, brushing teeth, and breakfast.

• Start talking about what the school day might look like.

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6. Talk Positively About School

Help your child feel excited, not anxious:

• Visit the school if possible (many schools offer transition days).

• Read books about starting school (e.g., Starting School by Janet & Allan Ahlberg).

• Talk about making friends, playing, and learning fun things.

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7. Communicate With the School

• Find out about what to bring (e.g., PE kit, spare clothes, book bag).

• Share any relevant info with the teacher: allergies, medical issues, speech concerns, etc.

• Attend induction events or meetings if offered.