How do you know if your child is ready to start school?

What is school readiness? This question may sound simple, but school readiness is a complex construct with varying definitions across cultures. Some emphasise childrens skills, others the family, school and community relationships around the child. For Indigenous families, culturally responsive practices are especially important during the transition to school. But regardless of background, the transition to school life is more likely to be a smooth process when a child: is supported by a favourable home learning environment, which includes reading with a child, playing games that support numeracy skills, counting, and visiting libraries has experienced high-quality early education is able to manage their emotions and be attentive, understand and follow directions, and play and learn together with other children enters a school that is prepared to provide for the particular needs and interests of the individual child, such as learning or behavioural difficulties. A child might not experience all of these, but even some of these things can help. Early interventions by teachers or parents that build confidence and skills can also be effective. This can include promoting a childs language skill by reading to the child often, and using opportunities to encourage the child to think about and regulate their own behaviour. This can be done through taking turns, taking part in conversations, asking questions, and giving children time to be heard. Learning how to interact with others and seek help when it is needed supports smooth transitions.

Children at school Source: SBS