Building School Readiness Skills at Home: A Parent’s Guide
Starting school is an exciting milestone for any child — but it can feel especially overwhelming for children on the autism spectrum. New routines, unfamiliar environments, and increased expectations may bring challenges. The good news is that families can help prepare children at home with simple, everyday strategies that build independence and confidence.
Here are a few key areas to focus on as you support your child’s school readiness.
Daily Living Routines
Independence in self-care makes the school day smoother. Practice skills such as:
- Independent Dressing – Encourage your child to put on their own shoes, zip a jacket, or choose between two outfits.
- Bathroom Skills – Work on toilet training, handwashing, and pulling clothing up and down.
- Snack & Lunch Practice – Have your child open containers or peel fruit to build independence at mealtime.
Following Group Instructions
At school, children are often asked to follow directions in a group setting. You can practice this at home by:
- Starting with one-step instructions like “Clap your hands.”
- Gradually building to two- or three-step instructions, such as “Stand up, get your book, and sit down.”
- Using praise and visuals to make directions clear and motivating.
Sitting and Attending
The ability to sit and attend — even for short periods — helps children participate in class. Try creating mini “circle times” at home:
- Read a short book together.
- Sing songs with hand motions.
- Practice sitting on a designated mat or cushion.
Start small, with just a few minutes, and gradually increase the time as your child grows more comfortable.
Social Basics
School is not only about academics — it’s also about learning how to interact with others. Practice:
- Sharing – Take turns playing with toys.
- Waiting – Use timers to help your child understand waiting for a turn.
- Turn-Taking – Play simple games that require going back and forth, like rolling a ball.
These skills help children feel more confident when interacting with peers and teachers.
Using Visuals and Routines
Children with autism often thrive on predictability. Visual supports and consistent routines can reduce anxiety and make transitions smoother. Try:
- Visual Schedules – Pictures showing the sequence of the day (e.g., breakfast → get dressed → brush teeth → school).
- First/Then Boards – Simple tools to show what comes next (“First put on shoes, then play outside”).
- Routine Practice – Walk through the steps of leaving for school in the morning to build familiarity.
Final Thoughts
School readiness is not about perfection — it’s about giving your child the tools and confidence to thrive in a new environment. With small, consistent practice at home, families can make the transition smoother and less stressful for everyone.
Our programs at Kind Minds focus on adaptive and school readiness skills to help children succeed in their next learning environment. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s journey.
