We know how daunting it is when your child starts school in Reception. There are lots of simple things you can be doing with them now which will make things a little easier for them in September...

• Let them practise putting on their coat by themselves and fastening the buttons or zip
• Also practise putting shoes on, and on the right feet!
• Encourage your child to dress and undress themselves INDEPENDENTLY - this will really help them when we start getting fully changed into PE kits
• Ensure they can use the toilet and wash their hands by themselves
• Practise using a knife, fork and spoon, and encourage independent feeding
• Encourage your child to use good manners, for example please and thank you
• Sing lots of traditional nursery rhymes - Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Wind the Bobbin Up, The Wheels on the Bus, 5 Little Ducks Went Swimming 1 Day etc
• Count forwards and backwards to 10
• Practise holding a pencil and make marks on paper
• Practise listening skills - follow instructions, go on a listening walk, listen to the first sound in words