School Readiness Self Care and Confidence

What school readiness means

There has been growing concern in the media and among educators that a substantial number of children are entering school without the necessary day-to-day skills. A report published in January 2025 by a charity called Kindred Squared revealed that one in three children who began Reception in September 2024 were not considered school-ready by their teachers.

This conversation may spark anxiety for parents, especially as September draws near. But it also offers a moment to reflect on what genuine school readiness involves. It is not just about knowledge of letters and numbers. It is about being emotionally secure, practically confident, and ready to navigate a new environment.

A Closer Look at What Children Really Need

The government-endorsed ‘Starting Reception’ initiative recently released a helpful checklist of the key skills that help children settle confidently into school. These include:

  • Using the toilet independently
  • Using cutlery
  • Dressing and undressing themselves
  • Hanging up their own coat and recognising their belongings
  • Taking turns and sharing with others
  • Listening and paying attention for short periods
  • Talking about their feelings

These are not academic goals. They are life skills that help a child feel secure, capable and ready to engage in new experiences.

Helping Children Feel Capable, Calm and Connected

When children begin school, they are expected to manage much more on their own. Being able to go to the toilet without help, open their lunch, hang up their coat or ask a grown-up for help may seem simple, but these skills have a big impact. Children who can manage the rhythm of their day without stress or confusion are freer to enjoy friendships, engage with their environment and take part in learning with confidence.

Equally important is emotional readiness. Children need to feel able to separate from parents calmly, take turns with others, manage small setbacks and feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and needs. These are the foundations for feeling secure in a classroom. They help children form relationships and handle the many small transitions that come with school life.

 

Working Together to Prepare for School

If you’re wondering what else you can do to prepare your child for school, start by having a conversation with their nursery or key worker. Ask which areas they’re confident in, and which skills still need practice. Together, you can focus on small, practical steps – like encouraging independence with coats, or building resilience with gentle routines.

When home and nursery work in sync, children feel secure. That teamwork helps create the calm, capable feeling that allows a child to flourish when the school gates open.

How Nursery Brings These Skills to Life

At Canopy, school-readiness is woven into everyday life. Children are gently encouraged to put on their own shoes, wash their hands after using the toilet and help tidy up after mealtimes. They practise pouring drinks, using cutlery and making small choices that build decision-making confidence.

Socially, they learn how to join in play, take turns and use words to express frustration or excitement. We support them through tricky moments, whether that’s a wobble at drop-off or a disagreement over a toy, helping them name their feelings and work things through.

All of this happens in a calm, supportive environment that feels safe. We never rush children to meet milestones. Instead, we guide them at their own pace and help them feel proud of each new step. It is this steady, relationship-led approach that helps children grow into confident communicators, independent learners and inquisitive thinkers.

What You Can Do at Home

You are already preparing your child for school through your daily routines and relationships. There is no need to rush or compare.

Encourage them to try simple tasks for themselves, talk about how they’re feeling and involve them in everyday problem-solving. These are the kinds of moments that quietly build confidence.

And most importantly, remember that school-readiness is not about being perfect. It is about helping your child feel secure enough to take their next step.