If you’ve been reading the news recently, you’ve probably noticed that school readiness has become a major national conversation.
Teachers, charities and the government are all highlighting the same concern: too many children are starting Reception without the everyday skills that help them settle, learn and thrive.
But here’s the encouraging part.
School readiness isn’t about teaching your child to read, write or complete worksheets before they start school.
It’s about helping them become confident, independent and ready to learn.
What the latest reports are saying
Earlier this year, the government-backed Starting Reception campaign was launched to help families understand what children typically need before starting school. The aim is simple: make expectations clearer for parents and help more children enjoy a positive start to Reception.
At the same time, the latest Kindred Squared School Readiness Survey reported that teachers believe around 37% of children started Reception in 2025 not fully school ready, with increasing numbers struggling with independence, communication and emotional regulation.
Teachers reported difficulties including:
- following simple instructions
- dressing independently
- using the toilet confidently
- communicating needs
- coping when separated from parents
- sharing and playing with other children.
These aren’t academic skills.
They’re everyday life skills.
Why this matters
When children arrive feeling confident and independent, they can spend more time learning, making friends and enjoying school.
Children who still need lots of help with basic routines often find the first few weeks much harder. Teachers also spend valuable classroom time supporting personal care rather than teaching the whole class.
That’s why school readiness is becoming such an important national priority.
The UK Government has even set a goal for 75% of children to reach a good level of development by the end of Reception by 2028.
The good news
The encouraging thing is that these skills don’t require expensive resources or formal lessons.
Children learn them through everyday life.
Each time your child:
- puts on their own coat
- tidies away toys
- waits for their turn
- helps set the table
- chats with you about their day
- listens to a story
- plays imaginatively
- practises using the toilet independently
they’re building the foundations for school success.
Research continues to show that conversation, play, routines and opportunities to become more independent are some of the best ways to prepare children for Reception.
What we’re doing at Early Edge Learning™
At Early Edge Learning™, we believe school readiness shouldn’t feel overwhelming.
That’s why every week we create simple resources that fit into everyday family life:
- Word of the Week to build vocabulary
- Picture of the Week to encourage conversation
- Do This Before September tips to build Reception-ready skills one small step at a time
Just two minutes a day can make a real difference over time.
Remember, preparing for school isn’t about getting ahead academically.
It’s about helping your child feel happy, confident and ready to learn.
References
- UK Government – Getting children ready for Reception
- UK Government – Giving every child the best start in life
- Kindred Squared School Readiness Survey 2025
- National Children’s Bureau – A Better Start: School Readiness Report