We understand that all children develop at their own pace, and that we’re all learning from birth. When it’s time to start reception, some children will need more help than others. There are key skills* that schools expect children to be learning before their first day. Practising these will make your child’s journey to Reception as positive as possible.
If your child is already at nursery, in pre-school, or with a childminder, those professionals will work with you and your child to help get them ready. There’s lots you can do at home to build your child’s confidence and independence, helping them feel emotionally and practically prepared to start reception.
Every child’s start to reception is shaped by many factors. For example, children born in the summer months may be almost a year younger than their classmates, and things like where they live or the experiences they’ve had so far can all make a difference. What matters most is helping your child feel secure, confident, and ready to enjoy this new adventure.
Explore our helpful and friendly workshops on weaning, sleep, toileting, behaviour, and speech—created to give you practical support and boost your child’s confidence. Click below to learn more and book your place today.
All children need help from their trusted adults to feel confident and excited about starting Reception.
Our 0–19 team supports families from pregnancy through to the teenage years, helping children stay healthy, happy and ready to thrive. We’ve shared some helpful links from the national Best Start in Life website below, along with a direct link to their website so you can easily check what support your family may be entitled to.
There are many organisations who can support you with information and strategies to prepare you, your child and their educational setting, ensuring a smooth transition and setting them up for future success.
These include:
(Click the + above to view the services in your area)
0300 003 0013
Children's Health Service App
Growing independence
Taking care of themselves
Toilet training
Playing, creativity and curiosity
Building relationships and communicating
Being with others
Communication and language
Listening and engaging
Physical development
Healthy routines
Understand what ‘healthy’ levels of screen time are, by age
Get insights on internet safety, how screen use impacts young children and recommended screen time
And for those with younger children, the NCT covers advice for babies and toddlers too:
Help children build a strong relationship with food and make the right choices from the start
Brushing teeth
Sleep guidance