Most Kids Are Not Yet Year One Ready. These Toys Might Just Change That

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We all want the best for our kids; that includes setting them up for a successful future.

But, according to the government’s https://www.instituteforgovernment.org.uk/our-work/topics/policy-making/series-policy-making-left-behind-groups/school-readiness" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">School Readiness initiative, only 37% of kids are ready for year one when they finish reception.

While the government has pledged to boost this number to 75% by 2028, there are things you can do to change that at home.

Most importantly, it can be fun.

Learning Resources is an educational toy brand that has a ton of play options available to teach your kids the skills they need to start year one all in the comfort of your own home. 

Keep reading for our round-up, and expert advice on how to use the summer for skills progression.

What do kids need to be ‘school ready’?

“There are six key skill areas identified as helping a child become school ready,” explains Samantha Hayhurst, head of marketing at Learning Resources. 

“These include fine motor skills, self-care and independence, language and communication, social skills, classroom readiness and early maths and literacy.

“While this list may seem daunting to parents there’s an abundance of ways that families can support development across all areas over the summer before school term begins in September and beyond.”

What parents can do to support

Naturally, you don’t want to eat into their fun time over the school holidays, but there are ways to incorporate learning into play time, Hayhurst explains.

“There are lots of ways you can help to develop school readiness via play so children don’t feel pressured and are engaged in learning new skills,” she says.

Learning Resources has worked with educational experts and teachers to create https://www.flipsnack.com/learningresources2021catalogue/learning-resources-big-school-ready-guide?p=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">a guide filled with ideas for fun activities and games parents can play with children to build essential skills.

“We also have a YouTube series of https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHF_18W46Ha0D6utnEBHYIZ3eMRwfuAPz">Little Lessons,” Hayhurst explains.

“These bitesize lessons include tips on turning routines into play, concentration skills, recognising their name, early empathy and lots more.

“All of the little lessons are aligned with the six key areas of school readiness with an emphasis on play.”

The best sensory and learning toys to get kids ready for school