School Readiness: What It Means and How It's Changed

As a former Reception class teacher of 35 four-year-olds, I have seen firsthand what school readiness looks like. Over the years, I've worked closely with parents, offering practical and positive support, ideas, suggestions, and quick-win tips to help children make a smooth transition into school life. My approach is never about finger-pointing but about empowering families with achievable strategies that build confidence and independence in young learners.

So I read with interest the article in The Guardian about the Government's toilet training, cutlery use & teeth brushing initiative as a key part of England’s ‘school-readiness skills list.

These key checkpoints are in a new list of “school-readiness” skills developed by a coalition of early-years educators and endorsed by Bridget Phillipson, the education secretary.

The group said the guidance was the first of its type, intended to help parents to prepare children starting in reception classes in England from the age of four and came after complaints from teachers of children arriving at school in nappies, lacking basic skills and unable to play with others.

The coalition involves groups from the state and private sector and includes the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Association, the Early Years Alliance and the Confederation of School Trusts

According to the skills checklist, children arriving in reception should be able to use cutlery; use the toilet by themselves; be able to take turns and share toys; recognise their own names; hang coats on pegs; put their own coats on; pay attention for short periods of time; draw, paint or colour in; be able to talk about their feelings; be active for at least three hours a day and brush their teeth twice a day.

Parents should also limit their children’s screen-time, according to the guidance on the website, Starting Reception, launched alongside the checklist.

A survey by the charity Kindred Squared published last year found that teachers and parents had different views on “school-readiness”. While nine out of 10 parents thought their child was ready for school, primary school teachers said that only one in three children had the necessary skills.

I've spoken many times on BBC Radio about school readiness and how things have changed since I taught in Reception.

The concept of "school readiness" has long been a milestone in a child’s early development, marking the transition from home or nursery to the more structured environment of primary school. Traditionally, school readiness focused on social, emotional, and basic academic skills. However, in recent years, the understanding of what it means to be "ready for school" has expanded, encompassing practical life skills such as toilet training, using cutlery, and even teeth brushing.

The Evolution of School Readiness

In the past, school readiness was often synonymous with being able to recognise letters and numbers, sit still for short periods, and follow simple instructions. While these remain important, there is now a greater emphasis on personal independence and self-care. Schools are increasingly recognising that children who arrive with strong self-care skills tend to settle more quickly into routines and are better equipped to focus on learning.

Technology's Impact on School Readiness

Technology has had a profound effect on the concept of school readiness. On one hand, digital tools and educational apps have given children access to new ways of learning, helping them develop early literacy and numeracy skills. On the other hand, increased screen time has been linked to delays in some key developmental milestones. For instance, excessive use of tablets and smartphones can reduce opportunities for children to practice fine motor skills, such as holding a pencil or using cutlery. Additionally, time spent on devices may encroach on activities that build social skills, like face-to-face play and conversation.

Parents and educators are now tasked with striking a balance, ensuring that technology enhances learning while still prioritising traditional skills. Encouraging "tech-free" times during meals or bedtime can create opportunities for practicing these essential self-care and social skills.

Toilet Training: A Fundamental Step

Toilet training has always been a key aspect of early childhood development, but it has gained renewed attention in the context of school readiness. Many schools expect children to be fully toilet trained before starting reception class. This expectation not only reduces the need for staff intervention but also fosters a sense of independence and confidence in young learners.

Cutlery Use: Nurturing Independence at Mealtimes

Another skill that has become part of the school readiness checklist is the ability to use cutlery. Schools are encouraging parents to teach their children to handle forks, knives, and spoons as part of their preparation for lunchtime routines. Mealtimes provide children with an opportunity to develop fine motor skills and social etiquette, making the transition to eating in a communal setting smoother.

Teeth Brushing: Promoting Health and Hygiene

Interestingly, teeth brushing has recently been added to the list of school-readiness skills. Some schools now run supervised tooth-brushing programmes, recognising the link between oral health and overall well-being. Encouraging children to brush their teeth independently before starting school instills good hygiene habits and ensures that children can participate confidently in these school-based initiatives.

Supporting Parents and Children

Parents play a crucial role in helping their children develop these skills. Simple daily routines at home, such as setting aside time for independent tooth brushing, encouraging children to dress themselves, and practicing using cutlery during meals, can make a significant difference. Schools and nurseries can support this process by providing guidance and resources to parents.

Felicity Gillespie director of Kindred Squared, said: “Too many parents say they don’t know what sorts of skills their children should be developing prior to starting school or where to go for help.

Quick Tips for Parents

1. Toilet Training: Start early and keep it positive. Use reward charts and celebrate small successes.
2. Cutlery Practice: Make mealtimes fun! Use child-friendly cutlery and practice cutting soft foods together.
3. Teeth Brushing: Set a timer for two minutes and brush together as a family to make it a daily habit - why not pop on a favourite song and dance too!
4. Screen Time Balance: Introduce "no-screen zones" during meals and bedtime to encourage conversation and connection.
5. Independence Boosters: Encourage your child to dress themselves, pack their bag, and tidy up after playtime - velcro shoes and learning to do up zips is a must!
6. Social Skills: Arrange playdates to help your child practice sharing, taking turns, and making friends.

My website is bursting with blogs, videos, articles, podcasts and information to help so pop over and explore

https://sueatkinsparentingcoach.com/

From Preschool to Primary: Your Step-by-Step School Readiness Plan ??

Starting school is a big milestone — not just for children, but for parents too! That’s why I’ve created A Month-by-Month Guide: Preparing Your Child for School (April – September) to help families gradually build up school readiness in small, fun, and stress-free steps.

This plan focuses on practical life skills, independence, and confidence-building so that by September, your child feels excited and ready for their first day. From mastering toilet training and using cutlery to boosting social skills and creating smooth morning routines, it’s packed with achievable tips for busy families.

No finger pointing, judging or tut-tutting!

If you’d like me to work with your parents — offering positive support, practical ideas, and quick-win strategies — let’s connect! I’d love to help make this transition a positive experience for everyone. ??

Supporting Parents and Children

Parents play a crucial role in helping their children develop these skills. Simple daily routines at home, such as setting aside time for independent tooth brushing, encouraging children to dress themselves, and practicing using cutlery during meals, can make a significant difference. Schools and nurseries can support this process by providing guidance and resources to parents.

School readiness is no longer just about academic preparedness; it’s about nurturing independence and equipping children with practical life skills that will serve them well throughout their education and beyond. By embracing a broader view of readiness that includes toilet training, cutlery use, and teeth brushing, alongside a mindful approach to technology use, we can help children step into school life with confidence, resilience, and a strong foundation for future learning.

For me, school readiness is about more than ticking off a checklist — it’s about giving children the confidence to take on the world, one small step at a time. As a former Reception class teacher of 35 four-year-olds, I know firsthand how these early skills pave the way for a smoother transition into school life. Whether it’s mastering cutlery, navigating the toilet independently, or simply feeling brave enough to say "hello" to a new friend, these moments of growth are what truly matter.

In today’s fast-paced, tech-filled world, parents have so much on their plates, and my aim has always been to offer practical, positive support — no finger-pointing, just real-life strategies that fit into busy family life. With the right guidance and a little patience, every child can start school feeling capable, cared for, and ready to thrive.

Let’s celebrate the small wins, nurture independence, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.

After all, starting school isn’t just a milestone; it’s the start of a whole new adventure!

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