Growing independence
Taking care of themselves
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- Putting on/taking off their coat and shoes
- Using the toilet and washing their hands
- Getting dressed with little help, e.g. after using the toilet or doing PE
- Using a fork/spoon and drinking from an open cup
- Spending time away from you, learning they can be looked after by caring adults
Play, creativity and curiosity
- Engaging in imaginative play (e.g. role play)
- Drawing, painting, colouring and sticking
- Sharing story books with caregivers, looking at pictures and talking about the characters
- Exploring the world around them (e.g. looking closely at the natural world or playing safely with objects at home)
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Online information and guidance
Growing independence
- Check out Parentkind’s online advice hub and magazine for parents ‘Be School Ready’
- Enjoy Family Corner’s 5 tips to help your child get ready for Reception
- Guidance for parents and practitioners - PACEY
- Download the free EasyPeasy mobile app for tips and activities to support everyday parenting moments
Taking care of themselves
- How can you make separating easier? - Family Corner
- Getting dressed and ready for the day - backward chaining information sheet - NHS
- Getting ready for the Day - BBC
Toilet training
- The Institute of Health Visiting has advice and tips on toilet training
- Simple and supportive toilet training advice - ERIC
- Potty training and bedwetting - NHS
- Pants4School - Down Syndrome UK
Playing, creativity and curiosity
- 5 steps for brain building through serve and return - Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
- How to follow a child’s interest in play - National Literacy Trust
- How to role play with your child - Pretend role play - BBC
- How to role play with your child - Playing pretend animals - BBC
- Fire up their imagination with drawing - BBC
- What is mark-making and why is it important for learning? - PACEY
- Sharing story books on World Book Day - BBC
- Nature activities for children - BBC
- Learning and having fun on the bus - BBC
- Play a game of 'What's that sound?' - BBC