School Readiness

School readiness refers to a child’s ability to participate successfully in the routines, expectations, and social environment of school. It includes a mix of physical, cognitive, social, and self-care skills. Supporting these skills before school helps children feel confident, independent, and able to engage in learning and social activities.

Key areas of school readiness:

Fine Motor Skills

• Skills such as holding a pencil, cutting with scissors, and manipulating small objects are essential for classroom tasks like writing, drawing, and crafts.

• OT can support these skills through play-based activities like threading beads, building with blocks, or manipulating playdough.

Attention & Sitting Tolerance

• Being able to focus on tasks, follow instructions, and stay seated for short periods is critical for learning.

• OTs support attention through structured, engaging activities, movement breaks, and visual or verbal cues.

Following Routines

• Understanding and participating in daily school routines, like lining up, packing away materials, and transitioning between activities.

• OT strategies include visual schedules, step-by-step instructions, and gradual exposure to classroom routines.

Toileting & Self-Care

• Managing bathroom routines, handwashing, dressing, and using lunch tools independently.

• OT helps children develop confidence and independence in these skills through practice, prompts, and environmental adjustments.

Social Readiness

• Skills like sharing, turn-taking, asking for help, and interacting with peers are essential for positive school participation.

• OTs use guided play, role-play, and coaching to develop social understanding and confidence.

Pre-Academics

• Early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills, such as recognising letters and numbers, counting, or following simple instructions.

• OT support focuses on playful, hands-on learning activities that build these skills in a fun and engaging way.

Red flags to look out for:

• Avoiding tasks that require fine motor control (e.g., drawing, using scissors)

• Difficulty sitting still or following group instructions

• Frequent distress with routine changes or transitions

• Challenges with toileting or basic self-care

• Trouble interacting or playing with peers

• Limited interest or confidence in early learning tasks

How OT helps:

• Provides play-based skill development in fine and gross motor areas

• Builds attention, routine-following, and self-care through structured practice

• Supports social participation with guided interactions and modelling

• Prepares children for the expectations of school in ways that feel achievable and fun

Everyday examples:

• Home: Practising morning routines, packing a school bag, using utensils or fasteners independently

• Preschool/Kindergarten: Following circle time routines, using classroom materials, engaging in group play

• Community: Navigating playgrounds, waiting turns, and participating in structured activities like library story time or sport