East Riding Council urges parents and carers to focus on social, emotional and practical skills from birth to prepare children for primary school, with emphasis on community support and early intervention.
East Riding Council is urging parents and carers of pre-school children to start preparing now for the move into Reception next September, as officials say school readiness depends on more than early reading and writing.
The council says readiness is built gradually from birth and includes social, emotional and practical skills. That means children being able to dress themselves, use the toilet, eat with cutlery, brush their teeth, listen to simple instructions, take turns and play alongside other children. Officials say those everyday habits help children arrive at school more confident and better able to learn.
The Department for Education wants 75% of children nationally to reach a good level of development by 2028. East Riding has set its own target of 76%, but this year 71% of children started school with that level of development. The council says families can get help through its Family Hubs, which offer guidance on independence, communication, physical development and healthy routines, including support with toilet training.
Councillor Victoria Aitken, the cabinet member for children, families and education, said children develop at different rates and some will need more support than others. She said school readiness is not just a family responsibility, adding that schools, early years settings, Family Help services and health visitors all have a role in supporting children through the early years and the transition to primary school. The council’s wider work on the issue has also highlighted the importance of early advice, stronger parent engagement and joined-up services, with local partners noting concerns about the effects of smartphones and social media, as well as changes in readiness patterns since the pandemic.
Families are being encouraged to use the advice available at Starting Reception, where the council signposts practical tips on building confidence and independence before children begin school.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
