School Readiness: A Guide for Families

Starting kindergarten or elementary school is a big step for the whole family. Rather than cramming academic knowledge, the everyday preparations below help children settle into group life more smoothly.

Six things to do before school starts

1. Practise self-care — putting on shoes, eating independently, tidying up toys; independence is a child's foundation for group life;
2. Adjust routines — shift bedtime and wake-up times toward the school schedule to reduce early fatigue;
3. Practise expressing needs — help children say "I'd like some water" or "I need the toilet" instead of waiting to be guessed;
4. Short separations — start with half-hour independent activities so children experience "Mum/Dad leaves for a while and always comes back";
5. Read picture books about school — stories give children concrete, positive expectations of school life;
6. Talk about school positively — avoid using school as a threat; make it a place children look forward to.

The first month after school starts

Adjustment periods vary from a few days to a few weeks. What matters most is consistency and punctuality: pick up on time, keep goodbyes short and warm, and avoid showing anxiety in front of your child. Teachers will keep communicating with you to support your child's sense of security.

A common parent question

"My child isn't talking in class — what should I do?" Quiet observation is a normal adjustment behaviour. Give your child time to watch the environment and peers; they will speak at their own pace. If the adjustment period seems long, discuss personalised support arrangements with the teachers.

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