Let’s be honest—starting school is a big step, not just for our little learners but for us parents too. It’s exciting... and a little bit terrifying. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a flashcard set or a parenting PhD to help your preschooler get ready. A little real-world play, a few mini adventures and lots of love and encouragement will have them ready and set to go.
Here are five simple, fun ways to build your child’s confidence, independence and social smarts - without making it feel like “homework”.
1. Order Up a Babyccino (with a Side of Confidence)
School skills: Language, confidence, communication, independence
Next café run? Hand over the reins (and the coins) and let your little one order their own babyccino. Yep, it’s adorable. But it’s also a tiny social masterclass - learning to speak up, use manners, make eye contact and hold their own with a grown-up who isn’t you.
Dr. Kaylene Henderson has a great mantra for moments like these: “Smile, say hi, and look them in the eye.” Nailed it.
Tip: Praise their efforts (not just the outcome) and watch their self-esteem bloom.
2. Play Your Way Through the Playground
School skills: Gross motor, social smarts, emotional regulation, wellbeing
The playground isn't just for burning off sugar—it’s a goldmine for school prep. Run, swing, climb with your preschooler, and play “floor is lava” like your life depends on it. Physical play builds strength and coordination, sure, but playing together also deepens your connection and helps your child feel happy and secure.
Plus, playground politics are a crash course in friendship: turn-taking, joining in, handling big feelings. Spoiler alert: someone will cry. That’s okay—it’s a chance to practise calming down and starting again.
3. Practise the Fine Art of Sharing (One Turn at a Time)
School skills: Empathy, patience, social skills, emotional smarts
Turn-taking, sharing and waiting—they’re like the holy trinity of school survival. Whether you're passing time at the park or waiting for babyccinos, use the moment to practise patience and empathy.
Say things like:
- “My turn, your turn.”
- “Let’s play ‘I spy’ while we wait.”
- “I saw you let that boy have a go on the swing—that was really kind!”
Little moments like these add up to big social wins.
4. Let Them Pack Their Own Backpack (Yes, Really)
School skills: Independence, organisation, fine motor, responsibility
Before you head out, put your child in charge of packing their bag—snack, drink bottle, hat, favourite rock, whatever. Will they forget something? Probably. But that’s part of the magic.
Try a picture checklist so they can tick things off as they go. They’ll feel proud, capable and more likely to remember their lunchbox when school starts for real.
Bonus: all that zipping, stuffing and carrying = a sneaky fine motor skills workout.
5. Make Library Storytime Your Weekly Ritual
School skills: Early literacy, group skills, communication, self-regulation, curiosity
Library story times are basically undercover school training. Children get used to sitting in groups, listening to a grown-up (who isn’t Mum or Dad) and sharing space with others. Plus, they get to chat, sing and soak up stories that build vocab, imagination and a love of learning.
Let your child choose their own books to borrow—it builds confidence and helps them explore their interests (trucks, tigers, unicorns with jetpacks—you name it).
On the way home, chat about how story time is similar to school. It’ll help them feel more prepared... and less like they’re diving into the unknown.
Want More Real-World School Readiness Tips?
Download our School Readiness Checklist—full of playful, low-effort ideas that actually work.
Curious about how early learning services get children school-ready? Watch School Readiness in Action to hear from expert educators.
Visit the Care for Kids School Readiness Hub for a treasure trove of tips, tools and activities.
