5 Key Skills Your Child Needs for School Readiness

Starting Prep is an exciting milestone for children and families. While buying the uniform and school bag is the easy part, parents often wonder: Is my child really ready for school?

School readiness isn’t about being able to read or do maths before Prep—it’s about having the foundational skills that help children participate, learn, and thrive in the classroom.

Here are the top 5 skills we look for when supporting school readiness.

1. Self-Care Independence

Being able to manage everyday routines helps children feel confident at school. Skills include:

• Opening lunchboxes and drink bottles

• Using the toilet independently

• Dressing skills like putting on jumpers and shoes

• Washing hands without reminders

  
  

2. Attention and Regulation

Children need to be able to focus long enough to join group activities, listen to instructions, and complete short tasks. This also includes managing big emotions, coping with change, and using strategies to calm down when things feel overwhelming.

3. Fine Motor and Pre-Writing Skills

Prep involves lots of hands-on learning! Important skills include:

• Using scissors safely

• Holding crayons, pencils, or markers

• Drawing basic shapes

• Building hand strength for writing, colouring, and craft

  
  

4. Social and Play Skills

Learning in Prep often happens through play and group interaction. School-ready children are beginning to:

• Share and take turns

• Join group games

• Use words to solve small conflicts

• Show interest in friendships

5. Communication and Listening Skills

Being able to understand and follow simple instructions, as well as express needs and ideas, is key. This includes:

• Asking for help when needed

• Retelling short stories or events

• Following 2–3 step directions (e.g., “Put your bag away, sit on the mat, and listen”)

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

Not every child develops these skills at the same pace—and that’s okay! Occupational therapists can support school readiness by:

• Building fine motor strength and handwriting foundations

• Teaching strategies for emotional regulation and attention

• Supporting independence in self-care routines

• Guiding play, social skills, and confidence in group settings

Final Thoughts

Starting school is about much more than academics—it’s about feeling confident, capable, and ready to take part in a new environment. With the right supports, every child can make a positive start to Prep.

At Growing Occupational Therapy, we run school readiness programs and individual sessions designed to give children the skills and confidence they need to thrive in their first year of school.