To help understand what children should be able to do before starting school in their reception class, here are the 10 key steps for unlocking school readiness for parents and carers, plus lots of practical ways in which you can help your children get ready for school.

10 steps to school readiness

  • I can settle happily without my parent or carer
  • I can tell friends and grown-ups what I need
  • I can take turns and share when I am playing
  • I can go to the toilet on my own and wash my hands
  • I can put on my own coat and shoes and feed myself
  • I can tell a grown up if I am happy, sad or cross
  • I know that what I do and say can make others happy or unhappy
  • I am curious and want to learn and play
  • I can stop what I am doing, listen and follow simple instructions
  • I enjoy sharing books with grown-ups

The Derbyshire County Council have a range of readily available links to explore relating to your children's school readiness. 

Don’t be afraid to ask. Speak to your health visitor, children's centre staff, practice nurse or GP. Plus you can ask your child's child-minder or nursery as they can help you find ways to support your child's development and school readiness.

A helpful guide to how your child is learning and developing in the first five years can be found on the Foundation Years website. The guide is titled 'What to expect, when? Guidance to your child’s learning and development in the early years foundation stage'.

Talking point has an interactive 'ages and stages' questionnaire to help you with your child's communication and language skills.

Search for school readiness on the Nursery World website.
 

Families whose children need extra support because of special needs or a disability are advised to speak to their health visitor or other professional. 

More information can be found on the local offer