Most children start a preschool program somewhere between three and four, but the calendar is only part of the picture. Here are five signs we look for when families ask whether their child is ready for our Preschool room in Moorebank.

1. They are curious about other children

Your child watches other kids at the park, copies them, or wants to join in even if they are not sure how. Preschool is where side-by-side play turns into playing together, so interest in peers is a good starting point.

2. They can manage short separations

They do not need to wave you off without a tear. What matters is that they settle within a few minutes once you have gone, whether that is with a grandparent, a friend or in our Toddler room. Our educators handle drop-offs every day and will tell you honestly how the settling is going.

3. They are getting the hang of self-help

Pulling on shoes, washing hands, having a go at a zip, feeding themselves. None of it needs to be perfect. Preschool builds these skills quickly, but a child who is starting to try will find the room easier.

4. They can follow a simple routine

If your child copes with a sequence like tidy up, wash hands, sit for lunch, they will cope with a preschool day. Group times, mealtimes and rest all run on gentle, repeated routines.

5. They can tell you what they need

Whether it is words, gestures or a few key signs, being able to say “toilet”, “hungry” or “help” means your child can get their needs met when you are not there. Language grows fast at this age, and being around other children accelerates it.

If they are not quite there

That is fine. Readiness is not a test to pass. Many children start in our Toddler room and move into Preschool when the time is right, and our educators plan every transition with you.