Signs Your Child is Ready (or Needs Support)

Every child develops at their own pace, and being “ready” for school looks different for everyone. These signs can help families recognise areas of strength as well as areas where extra support might be helpful.

Social Skills
Children who are ready for school often show they can share, take turns, and play cooperatively with others. They may also begin to follow simple group instructions, such as sitting quietly during story time or joining in games. Developing these skills supports children’s ability to form positive peer relationships and engage in classroom activities (Dockett & Perry, 2014).

Emotional Readiness
Managing emotions is an important part of starting school. Children who can cope with short separations from their caregivers, express their feelings in healthy ways, and begin to regulate their behaviour are usually better prepared for the school environment. Research suggests that children who demonstrate self-regulation and resilience are more likely to adjust successfully to new learning contexts (Margetts, 2013).

Physical Readiness
School readiness also includes physical development. Fine motor skills, such as holding a pencil, cutting with scissors, or opening lunch boxes, help children with classroom tasks. Gross motor skills, like running, jumping, and climbing, support participation in active play and physical education. These skills are considered important foundations for learning and independence (Department of Education, 2022).

When to Seek Extra Support
If your child finds these areas particularly challenging—such as ongoing difficulties with separation, managing emotions, or everyday tasks it may be helpful to speak with their teacher or a health professional. Early support ensures children have the tools they need to succeed, feel confident, and enjoy their start to school (Petriwskyj, Thorpe, & Tayler, 2014).

Tips for a Smooth Transition to School

Start routines early – Begin practising school routines a few weeks before (bedtime, waking up, getting dressed, and having breakfast) so the first day feels less overwhelming.

Create a goodbye ritual – Develop a short, consistent way to say goodbye (like a hug, high five, or special phrase) to help with separation.

Label everything – Put your child’s name on their bag, lunchbox, water bottle, and hat to help them feel organised and avoid stress.

Practise independence – Encourage your child to try tasks like opening food packets, tying shoes, and using the toilet on their own.

Talk about feelings – Let your child share any worries and remind them it’s okay to feel nervous or excited.

Read together daily – Books about starting school can open up conversations and make the experience feel more familiar.

Do a school walk-through – Visit the school, classroom, or playground together so your child knows where things are.

Build excitement – Involve your child in choosing a school bag, lunchbox, or uniform so they feel ownership of the change.

Stay positive – Children pick up on adult emotions, so keeping your words and attitude positive helps them feel secure.

Work with teachers – Share any important information about your child with their teacher (e.g., allergies, interests, or anxieties).

Simple Ways to Prepare Your Child for School

Talk positively about school – share exciting things they will do, like making friends and learning new things.

Visit the school together – walk around the grounds, see the classroom, and meet the teacher if possible.

Practise routines at home – set up regular bedtimes, morning routines, and lunchbox practice.

Encourage independence – let your child practise dressing themselves, opening their lunchbox, and packing their bag.

Read books about starting school – stories help children understand what to expect.

Build social skills – encourage playdates, sharing, and taking turns to develop confidence with peers.

Talk about feelings – let your child know it’s normal to feel excited, nervous, or both, and that teachers are there to help.

Celebrate their efforts – focus on praising bravery and small successes, not just outcomes

The Role of Educators in Supporting Transitions

Educators play an essential role in helping children feel safe, confident, and excited about starting school. By working closely with families and creating welcoming environments, teachers can make the transition smoother and more positive for every child.

Building Strong Partnerships with Families
When educators and families work together, children feel supported and secure. Open communication helps teachers understand each child’s background, strengths, and needs, making the transition process more personalised (Dockett & Perry, 2014).

Providing Orientation Programs and Classroom Visits
Orientation days, school tours, and classroom visits help children become familiar with their new environment before the first day. Research shows that these experiences reduce anxiety and help children adjust more confidently to school routines (Margetts, 2013).

Offering Play-Based Learning and Familiar Routines
Play is a natural way for young children to learn. When educators provide play-based learning opportunities and predictable routines, children are more likely to feel comfortable and engaged in their new setting (Department of Education, 2022).

Supporting Diverse Learners
Every child’s transition is unique. Educators support children with additional needs, such as those with disabilities, different cultural backgrounds, or English as a second language, by making adjustments and creating inclusive environments. This ensures that all children feel a strong sense of belonging and can participate fully in school life (Petriwskyj, Thorpe, & Tayler, 2014).

Below are books to read about transitions

After reading the books above you could ask the following questions to open a conversation with your child:

1. How did the character feel about the change they faced?
2. What challenges did they face, and how did they overcome them?
3. Have you experienced something similar to the character/s?
4. How did the character’s friends or family help them?
5. What would you have done differently in their shoes?
6. How do you think the character felt at the end of the story?
7. What did the character learn from their experience?
8. How did the illustrations help you understand the character’s emotions?
9. How do/can you prepare for changes in your life?
10. How does the story make you feel about your own upcoming changes

Questions from:

admin. (2025, April 14). Picture Books for the End of the School Year. Children’s Library Lady. https://childrenslibrarylady.com/transitions-end-of-year-picture-books/