School Readiness Areas of Development
Our Occupational Therapy led School Readiness Program focuses on building the essential skills children need for a smooth transition to school. We support development in:
Fine Motor
Fine Motor Skills are the small muscle movements in the hands and fingers that help children complete everyday school tasks with ease. These skills are essential for activities such as cutting with scissors, colouring within lines, holding a pencil with the correct grip, and writing letters and numbers. Strong fine motor skills help children work efficiently, reduce fatigue, and participate fully in classroom activities.
Self-Care
Self-care skills are needed to go to school because they help children manage daily routines confidently and independently. This includes being able to open lunch containers, zip up jackets, button shirts, tie shoelaces, and pack or unpack their school bag. These skills also build confidence, resilience, and a sense of responsibility, allowing children to focus more on learning, socialising, and enjoying their school day.
Social and Emotional
Social and emotional skills are essential for a smooth start to school because they help children navigate new environments, relationships, and challenges. Skills such as recognising emotions, how others feel, using self-soothing strategies, making and maintaining friendships, taking turns, sharing, give children the confidence to participate in group activities, solve problems, and build positive connections that support both learning and wellbeing.
Cognitive
Cognitive skills are vital for school success as they underpin a child’s ability to learn and manage tasks independently. Skills such as listening, following instructions, attention, organisation and memory help children stay on track throughout the school day. When these cognitive skills are well developed, children can engage more fully in lessons, complete activities with confidence, and adapt to the structured demands of the classroom.
