tips for parents
When your child starts primary school there are a number of skills that they should ideally have mastered. Use this sheet as a guide to help track their progress – but please remember every child is different. You may also be interested to read this article from childcare.co.uk – parents guide to school readiness.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, please speak to your child’s key person.
Self-care
- I know when to wash my hands
- I can wipe my nose
- I can ask for help if I don’t feel well
Independence
- I am happy to be away from my mummy, daddy or main carer
- I am happy to tidy my belongings & look after my things
- I am feeling confident about starting school
Speaking & Literacy
- I am interested in reading stories & looking at picture books
- I am able to talk about myself, my needs & feelings
- I am practising recognising my name when it’s written down
Sharing & turn taking
- I can share toys & take turns
- I can play games with others
- I can interact with other children
Getting dressed & undressed on my own
- I can button & unbutton my clothes
- I can put my own shoes & socks on
- I can put my coat on & use a zip
Listening & Understanding
- I am able to sit still & listen for a short while
- I can follow instructions
- I understand the need to follow rule
Interest in the world & new activities
- I enjoy learning about the world around me
- I am interested in exploring new activities or environments
- I like asking questions
Counting skills
- I enjoy practising counting objects
- I like saying number rhymes & playing counting games
- I can recognise some numbers when they are written down
Eating
- I can use a knife & fork
- I can open my packed lunch on my own
- I am confident at opening wrappers & packaging
Writing skills
- I like tracing patterns & colouring in
- I enjoy experimenting with different shaped scribbles
- I am practising holding a pencil
Going to the toilet
- I can go to the toilet on my own, wipe myself properly & flush
- I can wash & dry my hands without any help
Routines
- I have practised putting on my uniform & getting ready to leave on time
- I have a good bedtime routine, so I’m not feeling tired for school
- I’m learning to eat at the times I will on school days
