Preparing Your Child for School: A Parent's Guide to School Readiness and Early Education

Georgina Gray
May 6, 2025
4 min read

As your child approaches the age for preschool or kindergarten, you may find yourself wondering about their readiness for this new adventure. School readiness is not just about academic skills; it encompasses emotional, social, and physical readiness as well. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this important transition.

Signs Your Child is Ready for Preschool or Kindergarten

Every child develops at their own pace, but there are some common signs that indicate readiness for school. According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), children who can follow simple instructions, sustain engagement, identify and pursue own interests, express their needs verbally, and show curiosity about the world around them are often ready for preschool. Additionally, social skills—like sharing, taking turns, and playing cooperatively—are a bonus, but these are skills that your child will learn at school. If your child demonstrates these abilities, they are likely prepared to embark on their educational journey.

Preparing Your Child Emotionally for Their First Day

The emotional transition to school can be challenging. To help your child feel more comfortable, start discussing school well before the first day. Read books about starting school, visit the school together, and meet their future teachers, if possible. Some kindergartens and preschools offer home visits; ask them if they will do that. This is a great way for staff to get to know your child in the comfort of their own home. Encourage your child to express their feelings about this change, whether it’s excitement or anxiety. Children who feel emotionally prepared are more likely to adapt well in their new environment. As your child’s caregiver, you might also feel anxious about this big step. Try not to show your anxiety to your child, as they will pick up on your concerns and may mimic your emotions. Parents who stay positive and upbeat about going to school support their children in the transition.

Building Routines Before School Starts

Establishing a consistent routine can ease the transition into school life. Start by setting regular bedtimes and wake-up times to help your child adjust the the school schedule. Incorporate morning routines that include time for breakfast and preparing for the day. Consistency helps children feel secure and understand what to expect.

Many studies highlighted in: 'Routines and child development: A systematic review' show that pre-school children from families with consistent routines show better academic outcomes, including greater interest in school, larger vocabulary and enhanced literacy and maths skills.

The Importance of Play in Early Childhood Development

Play is often perceived merely as a leisure activity; however, it plays a crucial role in a child's overall development. Engaging in play fosters cognitive, social, and emotional skills essential for growth. Through play, children develop problem-solving abilities, cooperation, and creativity.

Encouraging imaginative play at home—through activities such as building, role-playing, or outdoor exploration—can significantly enhance the skills your child will need in school. It is also beneficial to provide opportunities for independent play, allowing children to engage in activities without constant adult involvement.

In my extensive experience as an educator, head teacher, and parent advisor, I have encountered many working parents who feel a sense of guilt and believe they must be fully engaged with their children at all times. While dedicating time for 'special moments' is important, it is equally valuable to allow your child to play independently while you manage household tasks. This balance promotes both independence in your child and a more relaxed home environment.

Screen Time

Many parents will give their child screen time, but caregivers should limit the amount of screen time your child gets. The World Health Organisation (WHO, 2019) advise no screen time for babies and toddlers under two, and up to one hour per day for preschool children aged 2-4 (this includes time watching TV).

“Brain scans show that they (children) learn more through interacting with other people than from screens. Too much screen time negatively affects memory and thinking” (National Childbirth Trust, 2023).

When selecting the right preschool/kindergarten for your child, parents/caregivers should ask what the screen time policy is.

Choosing the Right Preschool or Kindergarten

Selecting the right preschool or kindergarten is crucial for your child’s development. Look for programs that emphasise play-based learning, as well as social and emotional growth. Visit potential schools to observe the environment, teaching methods, and positive relationships between adults and children. According to The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), a high quality pre-school program:

Gives children the opportunity to develop positive relationships with each other and their teachers
Has a classroom set up, in which materials are chosen, and activities are planned that support children's learning
Has a curriculum that is planned and adapted to help children learn and grow
Involves regular interactions and informal assessments so teachers understand what each child knows and can do
Builds trusting relationships with families. They know that you are the most important people in your child's life

Questions Parents Might Ask When Evaluating a Kindergarten or Preschool

What is your educational philosophy?
What is the teacher-to-student ratio?
What curriculum do you follow?
How do you support social and emotional development?
What are your policies on discipline and behavior management?
How do you communicate with parents?
What opportunities are there for parent involvement?
What facilities and resources do you offer?
How do you prepare children for the transition to school?
What is your approach to diversity and inclusion?

Trust your instincts—choose a place where you feel your child will thrive.

Conclusion

Preparing your child for preschool or kindergarten involves more than just ensuring they can recite the alphabet. It’s about fostering emotional readiness, establishing routines, and choosing the right environment for their growth. Remember, every child is unique, and the journey to school readiness is a personal one. By providing support, encouragement, and love, you can help your child embark on this exciting new chapter with confidence and enthusiasm. Embrace the adventure ahead and enjoy watching your child flourish in their early educational experiences!

References

By Ben Mardell and Melissa Tonachel, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (n.d.). Retrieved from NAEYC

Selman and Dillworth-Bart, 2023 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jftr.12549

World Health Organisation. (2019). To grow up healthy, children need to sit less and play more. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news/item/24-04-2019-to-grow-up-healthy-children-need-to-sit-less-and-play-more

Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. (2023). Screen time. Retrieved from https://www.newcastle-hospitals.nhs.uk/resources/screen-time/

National Childbirth Trust. (2023). Screen time for babies and toddlers: how much? Retrieved from https://www.nct.org.uk/information/baby-toddler/caring-for-your-baby-or-toddler/screen-time-for-babies-and-toddlers-how-much

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) https://www.naeyc.org/our-work/families/what-does-high-quality-program-for-preschool-look-like

NDNA. (2025). Call on government to support new definition of ‘school readiness’. Retrieved from https://ndna.org.uk/news/call-on-government-to-support-new-definition-of-school-readiness-2/