Top 5 Essential Skills to Prepare Your Child before they start School.

If your child is starting school for the first time in September, you’re probably feeling a little nervous and excited on their behalf.

It can be hard for parents to know how is best to prepare them for Reception class – are you meant to teach them to read, write and count before they start lessons? Or are there other skills, which you haven’t even thought of, that are more important?

“There are no official guidelines covering what children should be able to do before they enter Reception, but there are a few key skills that will help your children hit the ground running when they get there,” says early years expert Laura House, an education lead at childcare platform tiney.

And before you get worried, that doesn’t mean you need to have launched into the curriculum with your child before their first day.

Clinical psychologist Dr Martha Deiros Collado said in a recent Instagram post that she’s often asked by parents how to start teaching kids to read, write and do maths ahead of beginning school. 

“The truth is, these academic skills are what teachers at school are for so you can drop them off your list,” she said.

Instead, parents should support their child to build skills that will help them feel confident and competent at school, she suggested. So, what might these be?

1. Effective Communication: Communication forms the foundation of early education. Children who can confidently express themselves will find it easier to engage with the curriculum, interact with teachers, and connect with their peers. Encourage your child's communication skills by engaging in daily conversations, asking questions, discussing their play activities, and singing together.

2. Independence: Fostering a sense of independence is invaluable. Teach your child practical life skills such as using utensils, including a knife for cutting food and spreading butter, proper bathroom etiquette, dressing themselves, and putting on coats and shoes. This independence will boost their confidence in handling these tasks on their own at school.

3. Numeracy Awareness: You don't need to transform your child into a math prodigy before school begins. Instead, show them how math is intertwined with everyday life. Involve them in activities like baking, where they can measure ingredients, identify shapes, patterns, and measurements during daily routines, and even count while doing activities like brushing their teeth.

4. Concentration Skills: School can be overwhelming for young children, with multiple tasks and social interactions to manage. Help them develop concentration skills at home through activities like sticker books, jigsaw puzzles, coloring, and engaging workbooks. These activities encourage attention and focus.

5. Playtime: Lastly, let kids be kids. Providing ample opportunities for unstructured, imaginative play is crucial. Encourage outdoor play in local parks, creative projects with materials like cardboard tubes or clay, and activities like making "potions" with natural elements. All of these foster creativity and problem-solving skills.

Remember, you don't need to turn your home into a mini classroom. Instead, focus on nurturing these foundational skills, and your child will be well-prepared to embark on their educational journey with confidence.