ParentTV: Is my child ready for school?

November 1, 2025

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Is my child ready for school with Maggie Dent

Practical guidance for families of 2026 starters (inspired by Maggie Dent’s advice on ParentTV)

Starting school is a big step for little people—and for their grown-ups too. While many parents wonder, “Is my child ready for school?” the most helpful question is, “How can we gently build

readiness over time?” Readiness isn’t a single test; it’s a mix of social-emotional skills, self-care, language, and everyday independence that grows through play and family routines.

Below are simple, low-pressure ways to support children between now and Term 1, 2026.

What “school readiness” really looks like

● Emotion regulation & separation: Can your child manage big feelings with your help and settle after goodbyes? Short, predictable separations (with warm reunions) build this.

● Social play: Taking turns, noticing others’ feelings, and managing small disagreements matter more than knowing letters by heart.

● Independence in self-care: Opening lunch boxes, toileting, washing hands, blowing noses, and putting on a hat or jumper help children feel capable at school.

● Listening & language: Following two-step instructions (“Pop shoes in the basket, then grab your hat”), asking questions, and enjoying stories together lay the groundwork for classroom learning.

● Fine & gross motor: Climbing, running, balancing, drawing, threading, playdough, and simple cutting strengthen bodies and hands for sitting, writing and play.

● Curiosity & stamina: Wondering about the world, sticking with a task for a few minutes, and bouncing back after small frustrations all point to readiness.

Gentle ways to build readiness at home

● Play is the priority: Unstructured outdoor play (parks, backyards, beaches) grows resilience, coordination and confidence. Indoors, blocks, pretend play and drawing are perfect.

● Talk your day: Narrate routines (“First breakfast, then teeth, then shoes”), expand your child’s words (“Yes, it’s a huge truck!”), and enjoy daily story time.

● Practice “little jobs”: Let your child pack a simple lunch, fill their drink bottle, and put their hat in their bag—confidence grows from doing.

● Snack station success: Do a few “practice recesses” at home. Pack the lunch box and see if your child can open items and recognise “recess” vs “lunch”.

● Feelings first: Name emotions (“It’s okay to feel nervous about school”) and model calm. A short breathing game—“smell the flower, blow the candle”—works wonders.

● Screen time with sense: Keep screens calm and brief before bedtime; protect sleep for growth, behaviour and learning.

Routines to start (or strengthen) now

● Morning rhythm: Same order, same cues (music, visual checklist). Predictability reduces stress for everyone.

● Bedtime basics: Aim for an age-appropriate bedtime and a wind-down routine: bath, story, cuddle, lights out.

● Practice the school day: In late January, do a few “dress-rehearsal” mornings: get up, get dressed, pack bag, and walk/drive past school.

When your child seems “not quite ready”

Every child develops on their own timeline. If you’re unsure, chat with your child’s early learning teacher, your school, or your GP/child health nurse. A year is a long time in early childhood—many skills bloom with time, play and patient support. If a later start or transition support is recommended, that’s a wise, child-centred choice—not a race lost.

First-day tips for calm beginnings

● Keep breakfast simple, unhurried and familiar.

● Arrive with time to spare; short, warm goodbyes work best (“I’ll be back after story time”).

● Pop a small comfort in the bag if allowed (photo, ribbon, or note).

● Expect tiredness for the first few weeks—early nights and simple afternoons help.

Final thought: School readiness is built, not measured. With play, routines and loving connection, children grow the confidence and skills they need to thrive in their first year.

Attribution: Adapted from key ideas shared by parenting educator Maggie Dent in her video “Is My Child Ready for School?” on ParentTV.

To find out more about ParentTV for schools visit https://parenttv.com/schools or email [email protected]