Starting school is a big adventure — and for many families, it comes with lots of questions. Is my child ready? What should they know? How can I help without putting pressure on them?
At Aussie Kindies, we know that every child develops in their own time, and that real learning doesn’t have to look like worksheets or sitting still. It happens in everyday moments — when your child plays, chats, explores, and tries something new.
That’s why we’ve created a free downloadable guide for families: 10 Easy School Readiness Activities to Do at Home (PDF). It’s filled with fun, practical ideas to help your child build the confidence, skills and independence they’ll need when it’s time to start big school.
Why School Readiness Starts at Home
When we talk about school readiness, we’re not just talking about knowing letters or numbers. We’re talking about helping your child feel secure, curious, and ready to join a classroom community.
According to the Australian Early Development Census, the five key areas that support a successful transition to school include:
- Emotional regulation
- Social confidence
- Independence
- Early literacy
- Early numeracy
The best part? These skills are developed through play and simple daily routines — not formal lessons. So whether you're making lunch together or going on a shape hunt in the backyard, you're already laying the foundations for learning.
When Can My Child Start Preschool or School?
Every state and territory in Australia has slightly different age cut-offs and terminology for preschool or kindergarten programs, which can make things a bit confusing. But you’re not alone — we’re here to help.
Our Preschool & Kindergarten page includes a handy breakdown by state, plus everything your child will experience in our school readiness program.
From building friendships to learning through hands-on projects, our program is designed to give every child the best possible start.
10 Fun and Practical School Readiness Activities to Try at Home
All of these activities are included in our free printable, but here’s a little preview of what you can expect — each one linked to the key skills that help children succeed at school.
1. Emotional Regulation
Help your child understand and express their feelings in healthy ways.
- Feelings Charades – Take turns acting out different emotions and guessing them.
- Create a Calm-Down Box – Fill a small container with soft toys, drawing tools, or calming textures they can use when they feel overwhelmed.
Why it helps: Managing emotions helps children feel more confident, especially in new situations like starting school.
2. Social Skills
Support your child to connect with others, take turns, and solve small problems on their own.
- Family Game Night – Games with simple rules encourage teamwork, patience, and communication.
- Playdate Practice – Set up short playdates so your child can practise sharing, joining in, and navigating friendship moments.
Why it helps: Social confidence makes it easier for children to form friendships and feel like part of the group at school.
3. Independence
Encourage your child to try things on their own — even if it takes a bit longer.
- Lunchbox Practice – Let them practise opening containers, peeling fruit, and using their drink bottle.
- Dress for Success – Encourage your child to put on their own clothes, shoes, and backpack.
Why it helps: Children feel proud and capable when they can manage daily tasks independently — and it helps teachers too!
4. Early Literacy
Nurture your child’s interest in language, stories, and talking about the world.
- Storytime with Questions – Ask questions while reading, like “What do you think will happen next?”
- Name Hunt – Spot your child’s name on labels, drawings, or lunchboxes around the home.
Why it helps: A love of books and conversation sets the stage for reading, writing, and confident communication.
5. Early Numeracy
Turn everyday moments into playful maths learning.
- Shape Hunt – Go on a walk around your house or neighbourhood and spot different shapes.
- Counting Helper – Ask your child to count out forks, sort laundry, or pack lunch items.
Why it helps: Recognising numbers, patterns and shapes in everyday life helps your child feel ready for maths at school.
What’s in the Free Download?
Our printable guide includes:
- 10 easy-to-follow school readiness activities
- A focus on connection, play, and confidence-building
- Everyday items only — no special equipment required
Download your free copy of “10 Easy School Readiness Activities to Do at Home” and enjoy simple ways to help your child thrive.
How Aussie Kindies Supports Your Child’s Big School Adventure
Our Preschool and Kindergarten programs are designed for children aged 3–5 and are built around what matters most — building confident, capable kids through fun, hands-on learning.
At Aussie Kindies, we focus on:
- Project-based, child-led learning – Encouraging curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving
- Exploring technology with purpose – Helping children safely navigate the digital world in age-appropriate ways
- Enrichment programs that inspire – Including music, movement, outdoor play and more
You can learn more about our approach on our Preschool & Kindergarten page.
In Summary
- School readiness is about emotional confidence, social skills, independence, literacy and numeracy
- These skills grow through simple daily moments, not just classroom lessons
- Our free download includes 10 easy activities to help your child feel school-ready
- Aussie Kindies programs nurture the whole child through play-based, purposeful learning
- Our educators are here to help every step of the way
What’s Next?
Not quite ready to enrol?
That’s okay. Start by downloading the guide and follow Aussie Kindies on Facebook for more tips and ideas.
Ready to take the next step?
Find your nearest Aussie Kindies centre and book a tour today.