School Readiness: Is Your Child Ready for School?

Little Girl Having Fun In School Readiness Group

What is school readiness? 

School readiness refers to a child’s ability to cope with the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical demands of a structured learning environment. It is not solely about academic prowess but also about a child’s ability to engage with peers, follow instructions, manage emotions, work independently and adapt to new routines.

Building Blocks for School Readiness

To ensure your child is school-ready, ask yourself these questions:

  • Does my child socialize well with same-aged peers?
  • Can my child focus on a task and follow directions?
  • Does my child understand and follow set boundaries?

At CoRe Kids Therapy (based here at Sum of Us Kids Therapy Hub in Yarraville), we offer a School Readiness Program designed to help children adjust to the classroom setting and succeed academically.

What will your child gain from school readiness sessions?

There are several building blocks necessary for developing school readiness, including self-regulation, sensory processing, receptive and expressive language, executive functioning such as planning and sequencing, emotional literacy, and social skills. Our program aims to equip your child with tools and strategies that build confidence, maximise opportunities, and foster independence, providing the groundwork for positive school experiences.

The program is facilitated by experienced mental health clinicians, using evidence-based practices that employ the therapeutic powers of play.

What will you be doing in each school readiness session?

CoRe Kids Therapy play therapists and mental health clinicians facilitate the program once a week for a term, using play-based strategies and employing evidence-based practices to assist your child in working towards individual social and emotional goals set with you at the beginning of the program. The curriculum integrates intentional teaching and child-led approaches and experiences, all facilitated through play, such as art, craft, construction, movement, music, stories, role-play, games, mindfulness, and relaxation.

Your child will have opportunities for social play, practicing turn-taking, valuing and respecting each other through similarities and differences, and promoting kindness in communication.

They will also learn to regulate their bodies and emotions, identify emotions, and practice strategies for self-care in a safe, supportive, and fun environment.

Sessions will be an hour long, which is a mix of structured activities and child-led play, and will focus on developing the skills necessary for your child to learn and grow.

Benefits of our School Readiness Programs:

  1. Cognitive Development:
    • Early literacy and numeracy skills are introduced in a playful manner for your child to gain familiarity with these concepts.
    • Cognitive stimulation through games and storytelling enhances problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
  2. Social and Emotional Skills:
    • Building empathy, self-regulation, and effective communication are integral aspects of school readiness programs.
    • Activities promoting teamwork and collaboration help your child develop strong interpersonal skills and emotional resilience.
    • Familiarity with routines, expectations, and classroom dynamics reduces anxiety.
    • Your child is better equipped to manage stress, build friendships, and navigate the complexities of peer relationships.
  3. Physical Development:
    • Developing coordination and spatial awareness prepares your child for the physical demands of the classroom.
    • Gross and fine motor skills are used in a wide variety of ways in play, allowing clinicians to make observations about potential areas your child may need extra support.
  4. Parental Involvement:
    • These programs often involve you, creating a collaborative approach to your child’s education.
    • You gain insights into your child’s development and learn strategies to support continued learning at home.

Investing in school readiness programs is an investment in your child’s future! By fostering a holistic approach to development, these programs empower your child with the skills and attitudes necessary for a successful transition into formal education.

As mental health practitioners, educators, parents, and communities recognise the importance of early intervention, we pave the way for a generation of confident, capable, and eager learners ready to embrace the challenges of the academic journey ahead.

Get in touch to enrol your child in CoRe Kids Therapy’s School Readiness Program and help them become more independent and confident in their learning, social and emotional regulation, and self-care 🙂 Our email is: admin@corekidstherapy.com.au

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