School Readiness

Starting school is an exciting time for both children and their families. It can also be an overwhelming time for some and making the decision of when to send your child to school can be a difficult one. 

Children develop at different rates and learn in different ways. Their age varies greatly when coming to school, as do their life experiences and skills. 

So how do you know if your child is ready? 

Take a look at the Transition to School video below by Kids Matter, along with the Ready to Start School video by A-Z School. They both have some wonderful points for consideration. Both talk about the most important signs of school readiness:

• Social skills - being able to engage in a conversation, share equipment and toys, ask for help, take turns, listen to others speak and being comfortable to play alongside others.

• Independence - being able to pack/zip up their own bag, open/close/pack up their lunch box, take off and put on their jumper, independent toileting, taking off/putting on shoes and socks (velcro is wonderful, but teachers can help with laces where need be). 

Please be patient with your child and make the time to let them do it.

Your child's preschool teachers/carers/educators are wonderful resources who know your child well. They will be able to give you their perspective on your child's readiness for school to take into consideration.

The Starting School page of the NSW Department of Education website also provides guidelines to assist you in determining your child’s readiness for school.

Another, absolutely wonderful, resource once you have made the decision to enrol your child in Kindergarten, is the Transition to School website by Big Fat Smile and Families NSW. It is packed with relevant, easy to read information, along with wonderful, practical resources.

Preparing to start school...

• Read, read, read to your child. Reading to your child has many benefits. It immerses them in the rhythm, rhyme, expression and intonation of language, exposes them to many concepts of print, helps to develop empathy and of course promotes bonding with your child. It also helps your child to develop their listening skills and stamina to stay focused for a period of time. 

• Share a positive growth mindset - all children develop, learn and grow at different rates and that's OK. Please use the word 'yet' in conversations with your child. For example "you can't tie your shoelaces yet, but you will learn to do that soon". When your child is supported by a healthy growth mindset, it helps in their perception of being able to grow and learn, along with building their resilience. 

• Medical check-ups - it's a good idea to have your child's eyes and hearing checked prior to starting school. The Community Health Service in Moruya can be contacted on 1800 999 880.