Is My Child Going to Be Ready for Prep?

Image by Jess Bailey@jessbaileydesigns on Unsplash

Starting school is one of the biggest transitions a child—and their family—will go through. It marks the beginning of formal learning, but also brings new social demands, independence expectations, and emotional challenges. Understandably, one of the most common questions we hear from parents is: “Is my child ready for Prep?”

School readiness is more than knowing the alphabet or being able to count to 10. It’s about the whole child—their ability to manage their emotions, follow instructions, play with others, and feel confident in a new environment. And while age is a consideration, readiness isn’t a race—it’s a journey that looks different for every child.

What does being “school ready” actually mean?

There’s no one-size-fits-all checklist, but school readiness generally refers to a child’s development across five key domains:

1. Physical development
   Can your child go to the toilet independently? Open their lunchbox? Sit at a table and hold a pencil or crayon? While fine motor and gross motor skills don’t need to be perfect, a level of independence is important for confidence and classroom participation.

2. Social skills
   Being able to share, take turns, and get along with others helps children navigate the school environment. Do they try to join group activities, respond to social cues, and cope with disappointment?

3. Emotional regulation
   Prep can be emotionally overwhelming. Children benefit from being able to separate from caregivers, manage frustration, and express their feelings in appropriate ways. If your child is sensitive or anxious, it doesn’t mean they’re not ready—but they may need more support during the transition.

4. Language and communication
   Can your child follow instructions, express their needs, and understand basic questions? Language is central to learning and participating in class discussions, so it’s important they can communicate with both adults and peers.

5. Cognitive and attentional skills
   Prep children aren’t expected to sit still for long periods, but they should be starting to engage in structured activities, solve simple problems, and focus for short stretches of time.

What if my child isn’t ticking all the boxes?

It’s important to remember that readiness isn’t a fixed point—it’s developmental. Some children are ready earlier than others, and that’s completely okay.

If your child was born between January and June, you might be deciding whether to send them to school the year they turn five or wait until the year they turn six. This is a personal decision, and there’s no “right” answer—just what’s right for your child.

Delaying school entry can give some children the extra time they need to develop confidence and maturity. But for other children, particularly those who are already socially and emotionally ready, delaying can lead to boredom and disengagement.

It’s worth speaking with your child’s early childhood educator, GP, or a child psychologist if you’re unsure. They can help you look at the full picture—not just academics, but the emotional, social, and developmental factors too.

How can I support my child’s Prep readiness?

Whether your child starts school this year or next, there are lots of things you can do to support their development in everyday life:

• Foster independence
  Let your child practice packing their own bag, dressing themselves, and tidying up after activities. Building independence helps them feel confident and capable in a classroom setting.

• Play together
  Board games, imaginative play, and group activities teach turn-taking, cooperation, and problem-solving—key skills for Prep.

• Support emotional literacy
  Talk about emotions, read books that explore feelings, and model how to manage frustration or disappointment. Naming feelings and having strategies to cope with them can make a big difference in the classroom.

• Encourage curiosity
  Ask open-ended questions, explore new places, and encourage your child’s interests. A love of learning starts with curiosity, not worksheets.

• Practice routines
  The structure of school can be a big adjustment. Start setting consistent wake-up and bedtime routines, and try building in small periods of focused activity to build stamina.

What if I’m still unsure?

Many parents worry about making the “wrong” decision. But here’s the thing—there’s no perfect timing. Children are resilient and adaptable, and most will thrive with the right support.

If you’re still feeling uncertain, a school readiness assessment can help. Psychologists can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s development and provide tailored recommendations about starting Prep or delaying. These assessments take into account a child’s cognitive abilities, emotional readiness, and learning style—offering a much clearer picture than age alone.

Starting school is a big milestone, and it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. By focusing on your child’s individual needs, and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can make an informed decision that supports their long-term wellbeing and success.

Authors: Brodi Killen, Stephanie Mace and Samantha Pearce
Educational and Developmental Psychologists and Counselling Psychologist – With You Allied Health Directors