Preparing for School

Every child’s journey is shaped by the moments that matter, from first steps and first words to the first day at school. The government’s Best Start in Life campaign, delivered by the Department for Education and the Department for Health and Social Care, aims to help break down barriers to opportunity for every family, supporting parents and children from pregnancy through to age five and beyond.

Campaign details

Target audience: Adults, Parents and children, Parents-to-be, Students and teachers

Topics: Schools, Early years

Overview

Starting school is a big moment for your child and for you. As a parent, it's natural to wonder whether your child is prepared, and whether you're doing enough to help them get there. Here's the thing: you're probably already doing more than you think. Being prepared for school isn’t just about knowing the alphabet or counting to ten. It’s about confidence, curiosity and the ability to get along with others – and children build those through the everyday moments you already share. Chatting about what you've seen on a walk, learning to recognise their emotions, encouraging them to put their own shoes on – these small steps make a big difference. You are your child's first teacher, and home is where the foundations are laid. Helping them express how they're feeling, follow simple instructions, or take turns with others are all part of that. Every family's routine looks different, and there's no need to do everything at once. Children develop at their own pace, and what matters most is that they feel supported and confident as they grow. Visit BestStartinLife.gov.uk to find out more about how you can help your child feel confident and prepared for school.