Many parents begin to think about school readiness as their child approaches Reception age. At Downside Preschool in Dunstable, we support children in developing the confidence, independence and early learning skills that help them feel prepared for starting school. In this guide we explain the 16 school readiness skills recommended by Central Bedfordshire and share simple ways parents can support their child at home.
Starting school is an exciting milestone for children and their families. At Downside Preschool we support children to develop the confidence, independence and skills they need to feel happy and ready for this next stage of their learning journey.
Children develop at different rates, and there is no single checklist that every child must complete before starting school. However, there are some helpful skills that support children in settling into school routines and feeling confident in their new environment.
Central Bedfordshire Council has produced a helpful guide known as the “16 School Readiness Points”, which outlines key areas that help children prepare for school.
You can view the full guide by clicking here
At Downside Preschool we support children in developing these skills through play, daily routines, group activities and by working closely with families.
Below we explain these 16 school readiness skills and share simple ways parents can support them at home.
1. Listening and Sitting for Short Periods
In school, children will often take part in short group activities such as story time, singing or discussions with the teacher. Being able to listen and focus for a few minutes helps children join in and feel included.
You can support this at home by reading stories together, playing listening games such as “Simon Says”, or completing puzzles and simple board games.
2. Playing with Other Children and Making Friends
Social skills are an important part of school life. Learning to share, take turns and play with others helps children build friendships and feel comfortable in a group environment.
Playdates, trips to the park and group activities are great opportunities for children to practise these skills.
3. Understanding Boundaries
Children benefit from understanding simple rules such as waiting their turn, following instructions and respecting others.
Consistent boundaries at home help children feel secure and help them understand expectations in different environments, including school.
4. Understanding “Stop” for Safety
Children should be able to respond when an adult asks them to stop, particularly in situations that involve safety.
Simple games such as “stop and go” or practising stopping when crossing the road can help children understand and respond to this instruction.
5. Using the Toilet Independently
Developing independence with toileting helps children feel confident at school.
Children should be encouraged to use the toilet, flush and wash their hands independently where possible. Practising clothing skills such as pulling trousers up and down also helps support this independence.
6. Recognising Their Name
Many children start school able to recognise their own name, which helps them identify their belongings, coat peg and work.
You can support this by showing children their name in books, on drawings or by labelling their belongings at home.
7. Asking Adults for Help
Children benefit from feeling confident to speak to adults when they need help or feel unsure.
Encouraging children to express their needs and ask questions helps them build communication skills and confidence.
8. Dressing Independently
Practising simple dressing skills such as putting on coats, socks and shoes helps children manage school routines more easily.
At Downside Preschool we support children in developing these skills and encourage families to practise them at home too.
9. Talking in Sentences and Using an Extending Vocabulary
Children benefit from hearing and using full sentences and learning new words. Listening to your child, modelling speech and introducing new words helps build confidence and communication skills. Encouraging conversation and storytelling during everyday activities supports early literacy and language development.
10. Enjoying Books
Reading together helps children develop language skills, imagination and early literacy.
Sharing books regularly, talking about pictures and asking questions about the story all help children build a love of reading.
11. Holding a Pencil Properly to Draw and Write
Developing fine motor skills and holding a pencil correctly helps children get ready for writing at school. Drawing, colouring and mark-making, along with opportunities for pretend writing, help children practise control and coordination. Linking letters to sounds while they write supports early literacy and creativity.
12. Healthy Eating and Mealtime Skills
Children benefit from understanding simple mealtime routines such as sitting at the table, washing hands before eating and using basic cutlery.
These skills help children feel comfortable during school snack and lunchtime routines.
13. Recognising Numbers
Early number awareness can develop naturally through play and everyday experiences.
Counting toys, spotting numbers on houses or cars, and singing number songs can all help children begin to recognise numbers and quantities.
14. Health Checks and Wellbeing
Regular health and dental checks support children’s wellbeing as they grow.
Registering with a dentist, encouraging good tooth brushing routines and keeping up with recommended health checks all help children stay healthy and ready to learn.
15. Physical Activity
Active play is an important part of children’s development. Running, climbing, balancing and playing outdoors all help develop coordination, strength and confidence.
Children benefit from plenty of opportunities to move and explore their environment.
16. Music and Rhythm
Music supports children’s listening skills, language development and memory.
Singing songs, clapping rhythms or playing simple instruments are fun ways for children to explore music and sound.
Working Together to Support Children
At Downside Preschool we support children to develop these skills through play-based learning, daily routines and group activities.
We also share ideas with families so that learning can be supported both at preschool and at home. When children see the same encouragement and routines in both environments, they often develop confidence and independence more quickly.
If you would like to learn more about how we support school readiness, please speak to a member of our team.
We will also be sharing tips and ideas about these 16 school readiness skills on our Facebook page, so be sure to follow us to see the series.
Visit Downside Preschool
If you are looking for a welcoming preschool in Dunstable where children are supported to develop confidence, independence and school readiness skills, we would love to hear from you.
Our experienced team provides a nurturing environment where children learn through play while building the skills that help them prepare for starting school.
If you would like to learn more about Downside Preschool or arrange a visit, please get in touch.
You can also follow us on Facebook where we regularly share activities, learning ideas and updates from preschool.
