School readiness through purposeful hands-on learning

School readiness is about more than knowing letters or numbers. It’s about fostering capable, confident learners who are physically, socially and emotionally prepared to make the leap into a new environment. This crucial phase of early learning relies on the expertise, guidance and intentional practice of educators and early childhood teachers, whose role in supporting each child’s development is fundamental.

 

Aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) Version 2.0 and the expectations of the National Quality Standard (NQS), hands-on learning builds the skills, confidence and dispositions children need for a successful transition to school.

 

From emotional literacy and communication to coordination and self-care, school readiness spans every developmental domain. MTA’s range of school transition resources has been designed to support educators and teachers in planning purposeful learning experiences that build confidence, promote independence and prepare children for the social and practical realities of school life.

 

Books: building emotional and cognitive readiness

 

Reading together supports communication, emotional literacy and cognitive development, key aspects of Learning Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators. The Starting School Book Pack has been carefully curated to help children explore the idea of starting school through age-appropriate stories that promote discussion, self-expression and connection.

 

Pre-writing: encouraging mark-making and early literacy

 

 

Before writing begins, children need to develop hand strength, coordination and control. The Teachables Pre-Writing Mini Whiteboards & Whiteboard Markers Pack offers engaging and reusable ways to practise strokes and shapes, supporting early literacy while promoting confidence in a low-pressure format.

 

Fine motor skills: strengthening independence

 

 

Manipulating objects strengthens the muscles needed for writing, cutting, dressing and self-care. The Sorting & Strengthening Set offers playful opportunities to thread, sort, squeeze and build, aligning with Learning Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing and contribute to fine motor development essential for school-based tasks.

 

Social and emotional development: expressing feelings and building empathy

 

 

Recognising and managing emotions supports healthy relationships and classroom success. The Feelings & Emotions Puzzle Cards assist children in identifying emotional states and develop empathy and regulation skills, directly supporting Quality Area 5: Relationships with children and Learning Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity.

 

Language and communication: encouraging storytelling and expression

 

 

Children thrive in environments that value their voice and imagination. The Storytelling Bean Bags support vocabulary development and narrative thinking, offering a fun and tactile way to promote expressive language. These resources link closely to Learning Outcome 5 and support educators in fostering rich conversations.

 

Self-regulation: creating predictability through routine

 

 

Visual tools support self-regulation by helping children anticipate and manage daily transitions. The Daily Routine Board encourages independence, a sense of security and behavioural regulation, contributing to Element 5.2.2: Self-regulation and Learning Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world.

 

Life skills: building confidence through practical experiences

Independence in dressing, toileting and managing personal belongings is a key part of school readiness. The Dressing Frames Kit provides a safe space for children to practise buttons, zippers and ties, supporting autonomy and capability in line with Quality Area 1: Educational program and practice.

 

Gross motor skills: moving with purpose and building resilience

 

 

Running, jumping and climbing are essential for physical development and learning stamina. The Motor Skills Development Set offers dynamic movement opportunities that promote strength, coordination and persistence, skills vital for navigating the physical demands of a school day.

 

True school readiness goes beyond academics. It is about building identity, fostering curiosity and nurturing the skills that help children connect, contribute and thrive. When children are given opportunities to explore through hands-on learning, they grow into confident, resilient learners ready for the next stage.

 

To learn more about MTA’s school readiness resources or see the full range of MTA products, visit their website here. To connect with your local consultant, reach out to MTA by phone on 1800 251 497 or email [email protected] 

 

As services review and refine their school readiness programs, the new We Support  Hands-On Learning initiative offers valuable inspiration. Backed by Modern Teaching Aids (MTA) as a proud platinum sponsor, this sector-wide campaign champions the role of tactile, play-based experiences in preparing children for the transition to school.