Is Your Child Ready for School? Occupational Therapy Tips for a Smooth Transition

Starting school is a big milestone in a child’s life and for parents too! The transition can bring excitement and challenges whether your child is entering kindergarten or returning to a new grade. At York Paediatric Therapy Services, we often hear from families wondering if their child is truly “ready” for school. While academic skills are important, school readiness exceeds ABCs and 123s.

Occupational therapists focus on helping children develop the foundational skills they need to physically, emotionally, socially, and functionally thrive in a classroom environment. Here are some key areas to consider as you prepare your child for the school year, along with OT-informed tips to support a smooth transition.

1. Self-Care and Independence

Can your child manage daily tasks such as dressing, using the washroom, opening lunch containers, and putting on shoes? These are all essential skills for classroom independence.

Tips to Try at Home:

• Practice with lunch boxes, zippers, and Velcro shoes.

• Build a morning routine chart with pictures to help your child learn the sequence of getting ready.

• Encourage your child to try things independently before stepping in to help.

  
  

2. Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor development impacts your child’s ability to hold a pencil, use scissors, and manage small objects like buttons or crayons.

Tips to Try at Home:

• Offer fun activities like play dough, lacing cards, or puzzles to strengthen hand muscles.

• Practice cutting along lines or drawing shapes to improve hand-eye coordination.

• Work on pencil grip and name writing in short, playful sessions.

  
  

3. Sensory Regulation

Some children struggle with sensory input in a busy classroom with bright lights and loud noises, or being surrounded by peers can feel overwhelming.

Tips to Try at Home:

• Create quiet breaks during the day where your child can reset with calming activities like deep breathing or listening to soft music.

•   Visit school playgrounds in advance to get familiar with the environment.

• Build in sensory-rich play (swinging, bouncing, or water play) to help regulate their system.

4. Following Routines and Instructions

Classroom success depends on a child’s ability to follow multi-step instructions and adapt to structured routines.

Tips to Try at Home:

• Practice simple two- or three-step instructions like, “Get your backpack, put on your shoes, and come to the door.”

• Use timers or visual schedules to help your child transition between activities.

• Play games that involve turn-taking and listening, such as Simon Says or Red Light, Green Light.

5. Emotional and Social Readiness

School requires emotional regulation, patience, and the ability to get along with peers.

Tips to Try at Home:

• Read books about starting school and talk about feelings.

• Role-play common school scenarios like sharing, asking for help or waiting your turn.

• Encourage playdates or small group activities to build confidence in social situations.

  
  

Every child develops at their own pace, and readiness looks different for everyone. If you’re concerned about your child’s transition to school, an occupational therapy assessment can help identify strengths and areas for support. At York Paediatrics, we’re here to guide families through every stage of development, ensuring your child confidently walks into their classroom.