Starting Reception

We understand that all children develop at their own pace, and that we're all learning from birth. When it's time to start school, some children will need more help than others.

There are key skills that schools expect children to be learning before their first day. Practicing these will make your child's journey to Reception as positive as possible.

If your child is already at nursery, in pre-school, or with a childminder, those professionals will work with you and your child to help get them ready.

There's lots you can do at home to build your child's confidence and independence, helping them feel emotionally and practically prepared to start school.

Helping your child get ready

Your child will have lots of new activities and routines to get used to when they start school. There are some things they'll need to do more independently than they might have before.

​Research shows that a child's relationship with their parents is the most important factor in their development, and there's a lot you can do at home.

​When your child is at home with you or another caregiver, you can practice as a family with fun activities.

Some of these skills take time to master, so it's good to introduce them gradually as part of your daily routine.

If your child has additional needs

If your child needs additional support to settle into Reception, make sure you share as much information as possible with their new teacher. They can work with you to find strategies to support your child.

Summer born children, or those speaking English as an additional language (EAL) may need more support.

If you know or suspect your child has suspected or confirmed special educational needs (SEND), developmental differences or delays, some of these skills may not be achievable for them at this point.

Early support makes a big difference. Ask your child's nursery, school, health visitor, local children's centre or Family Hub for help.

Help and support

All children need help from their trusted adults to feel confident and excited about starting Reception.

For further information and help, speak to your:

  • childminder
  • nursery
  • pre-school team
  • health visitor
  • children's centre
  • Family Hub

To help you and your child get ready together, a list of organisations and resources have been provided.