Ready for school checklist

Help your child before starting school

Encourage your child to:

• Speak clearly and ask for what is needed, using ‘please’ and ‘thank you’
• Go to the toilet alone and flush the toilet
• Know their own name and address
• Expect to clear up toys after use
• Share things and take turns
• Use a knife, fork and drinking straw
• Be away from parents in the care of others for a few hours
• Answer questions with words rather than shrugs and nods
• Do up and undo any fastenings on clothes (buttons etc.)
• Sit and listen to a story
• Handle and enjoy books
• Hold a pencil and crayons
• Understand the use of everyday objects – handles, latches etc.
• Make their wants known clearly

Teaching your child at home

• Encourage your children to ask questions.
• Show your child the importance of reading. If children see their parents reading for pleasure and information – books, newspapers, manuals etc – they will accept reading as a natural and important part of life.
• Read regularly to your child, and discuss the story and pictures.
• Talk to your child whilst things are happening.
• Encourage your child to know the names of lots of everyday items.