Helping Your Child Prepare for School: OT and SP Tips
- claire2876
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
Starting school is a big step for any child — and for parents too! Whether your child is heading to preschool, kindergarten, or primary school, it’s common to feel unsure about how to help them prepare. At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our occupational therapists (OTs) and speech pathologists (SPs) support school readiness by building skills that help children succeed both socially and academically.
What is School Readiness?
School readiness goes beyond just knowing letters or numbers. It includes:
Fine motor skills – for holding pencils, using scissors, and opening lunch boxes
Self-care skills – like toileting, dressing, and managing belongings
Social and emotional skills – taking turns, following rules, expressing needs
Attention and focus – staying seated, following instructions, and transitioning between tasks
Communication skills – understanding instructions, asking for help, and joining conversations
How OTs Support School Readiness
Our OTs help children build independence and confidence through fun and engaging sessions. OT support may include:
Developing pencil grip and handwriting skills
Improving strength and coordination for tasks like cutting or carrying a bag
Supporting sensory regulation for children who are sensitive to noise or movement
Building routines and time awareness for smooth transitions throughout the school day
How Speech Pathologists Support School Readiness
Our SPs focus on helping children communicate effectively. They may support your child with:
Building vocabulary and sentence structure
Following directions and understanding classroom instructions
Playing cooperatively and using language to join in with peers
Preparing for oral language tasks like show-and-tell or storytelling
Tips for Supporting School Readiness at Home
Here are a few ways parents can help at home:
Encourage independence in dressing and lunchbox skills
Read stories together and ask questions about the story
Practice using scissors, drawing shapes, and writing their name
Role play school routines like sitting in a circle or asking for help
Talk about emotions and practice calming strategies like breathing or stretching
Partnering with You and Your School
Our therapists work closely with parents and educators to ensure a smooth transition into school. We offer individual sessions, school visits, and group programs focused on school readiness.
If you’re unsure whether your child is ready, our team can complete a school readiness assessment to identify strengths and areas that may benefit from support.
Let’s Get School-Ready Together
If your child is starting school soon, now’s the perfect time to prepare. Contact us today to learn how OT and speech therapy can set them up for success.
