It’s not just about knowing letters or numbers—school readiness includes a broad range of skills that support learning, independence, and participation in a school setting. With intentional experiences and practice, these skills can be supported well before a child starts school.
School Readiness Is More Than Academics
While early academic skills (like counting or recognizing colors) are helpful, true school readiness also includes:
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Self-care skills (toileting, managing lunch containers)
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Attention and concentration
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Physical endurance (sitting upright and participating throughout the day)
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Emotional regulation
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Language development
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Play and social skills
These skills help children engage, learn, and feel confident in the classroom.
Children who enter school with foundational readiness skills are better able to:
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Keep up with classroom expectations
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Engage socially with peers
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Learn new academic and functional skills more easily
When these skills are not yet developed, children may spend their early school years “catching up,” which can impact confidence, learning, and overall school success.
Child Development Australia. School Readiness.
https://childdevelopment.com.au/areas-of-concern/school-readiness/