Helping our children to be ‘school ready’.

by Rhian Rogers

School readiness is a crucial milestone for young children, setting the foundation for their educational journey. Children arriving at school without fundamental skills not only limit their own opportunities but can also impact their classmates.

A coalition of early years charities and organisations have published a list of things children should be able to do before they arrive at reception and are calling on parents to play a vital role in their child’s preparedness.

These guidelines were developed in response to concerns from educators about children starting school without basic skills. A survey by Kindred Squared revealed differing perceptions between parents and teachers regarding school readiness, underscoring the need for clear guidance. The initiative aims to bridge this gap, ensuring all children have equal opportunities from their first day of school.

To support this, the UK government have launched a ‘Getting Ready for Reception’ website, providing parents with valuable tools and guidance to help their children develop essential skills before starting school.

The key areas of school readiness

The ‘Starting Reception’ framework outlines four key categories of school readiness, each with linked skills that children should ideally develop before entering the classroom:

1. Growing Independence

• Putting on and taking off their coat and shoes.
• Using the toilet and washing their hands independently.
• Getting dressed with little assistance (e.g., after using the toilet or during PE).
• Using cutlery (fork, spoon, chopsticks) and drinking from an open cup.
• Spending time away from parents and understanding they can be cared for by other trusted adults.

2. Play, Creativity, and Curiosity

• Engaging in imaginative play (e.g., role-playing different scenarios).
• Drawing, painting, colouring, and using craft materials.
• Sharing storybooks with caregivers, looking at pictures, and discussing characters.
• Exploring their surroundings, such as observing nature and playing safely with household objects.

3. Building Relationships and Communicating

• Practicing sharing and taking turns with toys.
• Expressing their emotions and discussing how they feel.
• Recognising the emotions of others and showing empathy.
• Learning how to set personal boundaries and respect those of others (e.g., understanding how to say “no”).
  

4. Communication and Language

• Singing along with songs and nursery rhymes.
• Speaking confidently about their experiences and surroundings.
• Asking for help when needed, using clear language or sign language.
• Recognising their name so they can find their coat peg or belongings.

Additional readiness skills

Listening and Engaging

• Paying attention for short periods.
• Following simple instructions.
• Persisting with tasks even when they are challenging and developing resilience.

Physical Development

• Engaging in at least three hours of movement daily.
• Climbing, running, jumping, and catching a large ball.
• Walking up and down steps using a wall for support.
• Participating in activities that enhance fine motor skills, such as puzzles and cutting paper.

Healthy Routines

• Having a consistent bedtime and waking up on time for school.
• Limiting screen time to recommended daily amounts.
• Eating a balanced diet and trying new foods.
• Brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily, under parental supervision until at least age seven.

Why these skills matter

The ‘Getting Ready for Reception’ initiative is particularly important in addressing concerns about children who were born during the Covid-19 pandemic, often referred to as “lockdown babies.” Many of these children have faced developmental delays, especially in speech and social interaction, due to increased screen time and reduced in-person interactions. By encouraging parents to focus on these key readiness skills, the initiative aims to close the gap and ensure every child has an equal opportunity to succeed in school.

Working Together for a Brighter Future

Parents and caregivers play the most significant role in preparing children for school. Engaging in daily activities that develop these skills will help ease the transition into school life, making it an enjoyable and positive experience for every child ensuring that children start school with the confidence and abilities they need to thrive.