Starting school is a major milestone in a child’s life and the foundation of their educational journey. At Starfish Early Learning Centre (ELC), we focus on building confidence, independence, and a love for learning that will support their transition to school and beyond.
Our philosophy combines play-based learning experiences, socialisation, and early academic skills, setting children up to feel ready and excited for their next adventure.
What School Readiness Means for Your Child
School readiness is not just a matter of letters and numbers; school readiness is a child’s ability to manage their emotions, get along with others, develop routines, and approach new experiences with a sense of curiosity and resilience. At Starfish ELC, we recognise that school preparation is about providing children with the skills to handle the social, emotional, and cognitive demands of a routine learning environment with confidence.
Our Approach to Preschool Education
Our school readiness program is based on the philosophy that children learn best through play and discovery. By working early literacy, math, and problem-solving skills into engaging and motivating experiences, we enable children to progress at their own pace while building a foundation for future success.
Our educators are dedicated to fostering each child’s unique learning style, sparking his or her natural curiosity, and encouraging self-expression in a nurturing environment.
Encouraging Social and Emotional Development for a Confident Start
A child’s ability to communicate, share, and regulate feelings is at the heart of being school-ready. We enhance children’s capabilities in these areas through group experiences, cooperative play, and guidance of emotions. By helping children identify and name their feelings, befriend others, and resolve conflicts, we help them build confidence in social settings and feel ready for new adventures.
Building Independence and Self-Help Skills
A crucial aspect of school readiness is independence. Foundational self-help abilities, like getting dressed, hand-washing, and managing possessions, enable children to feel responsible and independent. Our educators encourage autonomy by providing opportunities for children to make choices and solve problems, helping them build confidence in self-care.
Introducing Early Literacy and Numeracy Concepts
At Starfish ELC, early numeracy and literacy skills are introduced through fun and engaging play. We use storytelling, nursery rhymes, games, and group experiences to make learning fun. Counting concepts, recognising letters, and identifying numbers are integrated into play experiences so that children are familiar with these skills by the time they enter school.
The Need for Routine and Systematic Learning
Routine and structure is vital when preparing children for school. We establish daily routines that help children feel safe and aware of what comes next. An understanding of routines such as morning meetings, meal times, learning experiences and transitions makes it easier for them to adapt when they move into a structured classroom setting.
Establishing a Supportive and Engaging Learning Environment
A supportive learning environment is essential to school readiness. Our classrooms and play spaces are designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, and social connection. By providing a balance of planned and open-ended play experiences, we promote academic and social-emotional development in a supportive and fun environment.
How We Work With Parents For Success
We believe that parents and educators working together is vital for a child’s development. We stay closely in touch with families, offering support, feedback on progress, and helpful advice on how to build on learning at home. By staying connected to parents, we make sure that children receive continuous support both in their early learning environment and at home.
The Last Steps to a Smooth School Transition
As children prepare for the transition to school, we help make the process as smooth as possible. Visits to local schools, conversations about what to expect, and practice runs of daily routines give them a sense of familiarity. Our goal is to build their confidence, ensuring they step into their new learning environment with excitement and a positive mindset.
School readiness is a process that involves encouraging a child to be independent, confident, and curious. We take pride in offering a balanced approach to early childhood education that sets children up for success. To learn more about our school readiness program, visit or contact us today.
FAQs
At what age should children start preparing for school?
Typically, preparation begins in the preschool years (ages 3–5), however, at Starfish, we begin supporting children to develop their social, emotional, and early learning skills from the nursery room.
What are the key skills children need before starting school?
Children should be able to follow instructions, communicate needs, manage basic self-care, and engage in social play.
How do you support children who may struggle with the transition to school?
We provide structured routines, emotional support, and gradual exposure to school-like experiences.
How can parents support their child’s school readiness at home?
Encourage independence, establish routines, read together, and provide opportunities for social play.
What role do educators play in school preparation?
Educators foster confidence, social skills, and early literacy/numeracy through play-based learning and guided activities.
What kind of daily routines does Starfish follow to prepare children for school?
We incorporate structured learning, group activities, self-help tasks, and social play to build confidence and independence.