Sending your child off to school can be a momentous (and emotional) decision for any parent. It’s natural to wonder if your child is ready for this new stage in their life. As a parent, you want to make sure that your child is fully prepared for the challenges and opportunities that come with formal education and that your child will not become overwhelmed. For some, you might feel as if your child is ready to attend school prior to their first year of compulsory schooling (Kindergarten), while others may be hesitant or have a gut feeling their child under six years old is not ready for a number of reasons.
When it comes to considering whether your child will thrive in an educational environment, development is key when it comes to school readiness. Children should have a basic understanding of language and communication skills, as well as some numeracy skills, such as counting and recognising numbers. For children three and a half years old, you should observe whether they have an eagerness to learn new skills. According to Kindergarten teachers, emotional growth is also important in children enrolled in Pre-Kindergarten programs, as children should be able to manage their emotions and express themselves effectively. Social development is also crucial, as children will be interacting with their peers and teachers on a regular basis.
Community and connecting is another factor to consider. Does your child enjoy spending time with other children? Do they get excited about the idea of making new friends? Are they comfortable in group settings? If so, this is a good sign that they may be ready for school.
It’s not uncommon for young children to feel nervous or unsure about starting school. After all, this will likely be the first time they have spent a long duration of time away from you if they have not attended day care before. However, children who exhibit signs of extreme anxiety or fear may not be quite ready for the transition. This may look like random outbursts, constantly worrying, not eating properly, or complaining of tummy aches and feeling unwell in social situations. If you have any concerns about your child’s readiness for school, be sure to speak with their teachers or educational professionals for guidance and support.
If you think your child is ready to attend an Early Learning Centre (ELC) before Kindergarten, you can learn more about how we make learning a positive, nurturing and fun experience at our Kindy Open Day on Saturday 29 April. Find out more at www.livingwaters.wa.edu.au/kindyopenday
