Life Skills for starting in a Reception Class

Here is a basic list of things that will, without doubt ensure your child has a smoother start to school. It is not intended that you adhere to it rigidly but it might be helpful as a guideline for parents who have children ready to be responsive to these activities. Remember, all children develop at different rates and they will not all be ready to do all things.

* makes eye contact upon hearing name

* can go to the toilet unaided

* fasten zips

* put on and take off shoes

* put on socks

* put on coat

* put on apron (over head)

* wash hands with soap

* sit still and listen to a story

* walk in a line of children and stay in place

* do up buttons or toggles

* can pass and receive objects without snatching

* understands the concept of tidying up (putting things back into containers)

* can eat a small snack in a reasonable amount of time

* can share equipment when constructing models (e.g. Lego)

* understands when to use big and small voices

* can hold pencil

* can recognise own name

* can write own name

* can use gentle hands when handling books