What Should My Child Know Before Starting School?

The 5 key school readiness skills that really matter.

If your child is between the ages of 3 and 5, you’ve probably started thinking about school. You might be wondering: What do they need to know before starting? Are they ready? How can I help?

At Kids Academy, we understand that preparing your child for school is one of the biggest steps in their early years. But here’s the good news: school readiness isn’t about being able to read or do maths problems. It’s about helping your child build the skills that will give them the confidence to take on new routines, make friends, and enjoy learning.

Here are five of the most important skills children develop in the years before they start school – and simple ways you can support them at home.

Dance Like Nobody’s Watching: How Movement Builds Confidence and School Readiness

Celebrating International Dance Day – 29 April. Have you ever noticed your child burst into a dance mid-play or spin across the room for no reason at all? That spontaneous movement is more than just cute — it’s a natural and essential part of their development.

At Kids Academy, we know that purposeful movement supports not only physical development but also confidence, creativity, and early learning skills.
In celebration of International Dance Day on 29 April, we’re highlighting the many ways dance helps children grow — and how it contributes to school readiness.

Immune-Boosting Made Easy: Our Favourite Zucchini Slice Recipe

At Kids Academy, we know how busy life can be for families with young children—especially in the lead-up to winter when runny noses and sniffles start to make the rounds. That’s why our centre menus are full of easy, nourishing meals that are both comforting and packed with immune-boosting benefits.

Grow, Learn, Thrive: Easy Gardening Activities to Celebrate Earth Day

Simple, hands-on ways to spark your child’s love for nature — right at home!

With Earth Day coming up on 22 April, there’s no better time to celebrate the planet with your child through meaningful, hands-on learning. And what better way to start than by growing something together?

At Kids Academy, we know that some of life’s most powerful lessons come from the natural world. Whether it’s caring for a plant, watching a flower bloom, or spotting insects in the garden, these experiences help children develop a sense of wonder, responsibility, and environmental awareness from a young age.

Many of our centres include garden spaces, worm farms, or sustainability practices that encourage children to connect with nature. We also offer a unique opportunity for preschool-aged children to learn about biodiversity and conservation through our Aussie Wildlife Champions program — part of our School Readiness offering for ages 3–5.

Little Bodies, Big Energy: Encouraging Movement and Physical Confidence

FREE MOVEMENT MOMENTS DOWNLOAD! If your toddler can’t stop bouncing or your preschooler is constantly climbing, spinning, or leaping – you’re definitely not alone.

At Kids Academy Early Learning, we see movement as more than just playtime – it’s a powerful way for children to grow, build confidence, and develop the physical skills they’ll need for life. That’s why we’ve created a free Movement Moments cheat sheet for parents – a simple printable with fun, low-prep activities you can stick on the fridge to support movement at home. You’ll find the download further down in this post.

From first wobbly steps to joyful skipping, every little movement helps your child build the strength and coordination they need to thrive.

Confident Kids Start Here: How Kids Academy Nurtures Emotional Wellbeing from the Start

Whether it’s a nervous wave at drop-off, a spontaneous giggle with a new friend, or the proud declaration of “I did it all by myself!” – the early years are full of emotional milestones.

At Kids Academy Early Learning, we know that these moments aren’t small – they’re signs of something much bigger: a child learning to understand themselves and the world around them. That’s why emotional wellbeing is an essential part of the quality education and care we provide for children aged 0–5.

Pumpkin, Lentil and Pasta Soup Recipe: A Kids Academy Family Favourite

At Kids Academy Early Learning, we’re proud to provide children with high-quality care and education—and that extends to the meals we offer every day. Nutritious food plays a vital role in supporting early development, which is why our menus are designed to nourish growing bodies and minds during the most important years of life.

Wellbeing First: How Kids Academy Supports Your Child’s Health and Happiness

Celebrating World Health Day – 7 April

At Kids Academy Early Learning, we believe that giving children the very best start in life means supporting their wellbeing every step of the way. This World Health Day (7 April), we’re celebrating the simple, powerful ways we help children build healthy habits—for life.

From fresh, nutritious meals to outdoor exploration and emotional guidance, our whole-child approach ensures that health, happiness, and learning go hand-in-hand.

Meaningful Easter Moments: Nature-Based Activities to Enjoy with Your Child

The Easter long weekend is a welcome opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with your child—connecting, playing, and creating memories together. Whether your family celebrates Easter or simply enjoys the time off, these thoughtfully selected activity ideas offer fun, calm, and educational experiences that children under five will love.

At Kids Academy Early Learning, we believe that what children learn at home is just as important as what they experience in our private, high-quality centres. Engaging in play together helps strengthen family bonds while supporting vital developmental milestones.

Autumn Sensory Play: Fun, Hands-On Learning for Kids

As the leaves change colour and the air becomes crisp, autumn provides endless opportunities for sensory play. At Kids Academy Early Learning, we embrace the magic of the season to engage children in hands-on learning that sparks curiosity and creativity. Our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, the most advanced and research-backed early education approach in Australia, is designed to support children’s growth through sensory exploration and play-based experiences.