Essential School Readiness Skills: Helping Your Child Prepare for Reception with Play-Based Learning

Starting school is an exciting milestone for young children and their families, but ensuring they are ready for Reception can feel overwhelming. A new checklist from top education and childcare experts outlines 29 key skills that children should develop before starting school. These skills fall under four key areas: independence, social and communication skills, physical development, and healthy routines.

At Edx Education, we champion play-based learning as the most effective way to prepare children for school. Our range of educational toys is designed to support early childhood development through hands-on, engaging activities. Explore the official checklist here: Starting Reception Checklist.

The Four Pillars of School Readiness & How Edx Education Toys Can Help

1. Growing Independence

Helping children become self-sufficient builds confidence for a smooth transition into school life. Key skills include:

• Using the toilet independently
• Dressing themselves (putting on coats and shoes)
• Cleaning up after playtime
• Using cutlery correctly at mealtimes

Edx Education Toys for Independence:

• Rainbow Pebbles® – Strengthens fine motor skills for dressing independently and handling small objects.
• Linking Cubes – Enhances dexterity and coordination, making it easier for children to manipulate zippers and buttons.
• Sand & Water Play Sets – Encourages responsibility and clean-up habits after engaging play sessions.

2. Building Relationships and Communication

Social and emotional development is crucial for school readiness. Children should be able to:

• Recognise their name
• Take turns and share
• Express their feelings and needs
• Engage in conversations with peers and adults

Edx Education Toys for Communication & Social Skills:

• Math Cubes & MyGears® – Foster teamwork and problem-solving as children build and create together.
• Role Play Sets – Help children explore emotions, practice turn-taking, and develop storytelling skills.
• Dancing Ribbons – Encourage self-expression and active listening while following movement instructions.
• Number Rods – Promote group discussions and early numeracy skills through hands-on activities.

3. Physical Development

Strong fine and gross motor skills prepare children for writing, drawing, and other school activities. Experts recommend at least three hours of physical activity daily to improve:

• Balance and coordination
• Pencil grip for writing
• Spatial awareness and movement

Edx Education Toys for Physical Development:

• Joey Jump – Enhances coordination, timing, and core strength through active jumping.
• Active Play Sets – Encourage movement, balance, and gross motor skill development.
• Pattern Blocks & Geometric Shapes – Improve pre-writing skills through tracing and shape recognition.
• Threading Beads & Lacing Activities – Strengthen hand muscles needed for gripping pencils and scissors.

4. Healthy Routines

Good habits ensure children thrive in a structured school environment. Key healthy routines include:

• Brushing teeth twice a day
• Reducing screen time
• Following a bedtime routine
• Making healthy food choices

Edx Education Toys for Healthy Habits:

• Visual Timers – Help children understand routines like brushing teeth and transitioning between activities.
• Cooking & Food Sorting Sets – Teach healthy eating habits through role play and sensory learning.
• Sensory Activity Mats – Support calm, mindful play before bedtime to improve sleep patterns.

Supporting School Readiness Through Play-Based Learning

Children learn best when they are engaged and having fun. By incorporating educational toys into everyday routines, parents can naturally help their children develop essential school readiness skills. Through creative play, movement, and interactive learning, children build confidence and independence for a successful start to Reception.

For more expert tips, free downloadable resources, and a wide selection of play-based learning toys, visit Edx Education and listen to our Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education podcast.

Let’s make learning through play the foundation for a lifetime of success!

Heather Welch, General Manager, Edx Education