Parent guide

Is my child ready to start school?

School readiness is about so much more than knowing letters and numbers. It's about whether your child has the social, emotional and physical foundations to feel settled, safe and capable in a classroom, and every child arrives at that point in their own time.

Readiness is developmental, not academic

The skills that help a child flourish at school are things like managing separation, following group instructions, sharing attention, holding a pencil, and coping with the ups and downs of a busy day. These develop through play and connection, not drills.

Age isn't the whole story

Two children the same age can be worlds apart in readiness, and that's completely normal. The question isn't 'is my child behind?' but 'what does my child need to feel confident and capable when they start?' Sometimes a little targeted support makes all the difference.

Signs Your Child May Be Ready

Can separate from you without prolonged distress

Follows simple group instructions and routines

Plays and shares with other children with growing ease

Communicates needs, wants, and feelings to an adult

Manages self-care like toileting, dressing, and eating

Can hold focus on an activity for a short stretch of time

If you're unsure whether your child is ready, you don't have to decide alone. A conversation with our team can help you understand where your child is, and what small steps could set them up to start school feeling confident.

Where to Next

OT at school and kindy Developmental assessments Signs your child may benefit from OT

Written by: Sam Gourley, Senior and Principal Occupational Therapist
Clinically reviewed by: Natalie Stehbens, Clinic Team Leader and Senior Occupational Therapist
Last reviewed: September 2026

Our clinicians hold full AHPRA registration and our reports are reviewed by a senior clinician. Meet the team.

This page is general information, not individual clinical advice, and it is not a diagnosis. Our occupational therapists provide assessment, therapy and reports; formal diagnoses of autism and ADHD are made by medical practitioners and psychologists. If something here resonates, treat it as a reason to talk to someone who can assess your child. See our clinical disclaimer.

Ready to take the first step?

Book a free, no-pressure guidance call. We'll talk through what you're noticing and what the next step could look like. No referral is needed to get started.