🎒 School Readiness Tips for a Confident Start to Kindergarten

Starting school is a big step — not just for little ones, but for their families too. Whether your child is beginning kindergarten next term or next year, building school readiness skills early can make a huge difference in their confidence, communication, and ability to settle in smoothly.

At Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy, our team supports families with the transition through targeted school readiness and early communication groups that build skills in a fun, supportive environment.

Here are our top tips to help you get started at home:

✏️ 1. Practice Independence Skills

Encourage your child to:

Open and close their lunchbox
Pack and unpack their bag
Use the toilet independently
Put on shoes and socks.
These daily tasks promote independence and self-confidence.

🧠 2. Build Focus and Attention

School requires little ones to sit and focus for longer periods. Practice:

Listening to stories without distractions
Completing simple tabletop activities
Following 2-step instructions like “get your shoes and sit on the mat”

Our school readiness groups help strengthen these skills through fun games, routines, and structured activities.

💬 3. Support Early Communication Skills

Communication is key for forming friendships, following classroom routines, and asking for help. Try:

Taking turns in conversation
Naming feelings and needs (“I feel tired” or “I need a break”)
Practicing greetings, like saying “hello” and “goodbye”

Our Early Communication Groups led by speech pathologists are perfect for children who need a little extra help in these areas.

🤝 4. Encourage Social Play

Social skills help kids connect with their peers and teachers. Practice:

Playing simple turn-taking games
Joining in with group play (“Can I play too?”)
Managing big emotions like frustration or excitement

Group sessions provide a safe space to build confidence, learn new skills, and make friends before starting school.

🏃‍♀️ 5. Boost Gross and Fine Motor Skills

Running, jumping, drawing, and using scissors — all part of a day at school! At home, try:

Drawing lines and shapes
Using tongs or pegs
Climbing, balancing, and ball games

Our school readiness programs include fine motor, gross motor, and sensory activities designed by experienced OTs.

✅ Ready to Support Your Child’s Journey?

We offer School Readiness and Early Communication Groups at our Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy and Shoalhaven Allied Health clinics. These small-group sessions are run by experienced occupational therapists and speech pathologists and include: