One simple thing parents can do to make children 'more ready' for school

One simple thing parents can do to make children 'more ready' for schoolA family psychologist says there's one thing parents can do to help their children feel more ready for school - and it's not about reading or numbersCommentsNewsRob Knight11:46, 16 Apr 2026View 3 Images Children learn empathy and patience by playing with others(Image: © SWNS)Playdates are the most effective way to prepare young children for school, according to an expert. Family psychologist Dr Martha Deiros Collado claims one of the most beneficial things parents can do before September has absolutely nothing to do with reading or numbers - it's organising a playdate.‌Children between the ages of four and six who play with other youngsters 'regularly' learn to practise skills such as turn-taking, empathy, patience, communication and problem-solving in a "natural and meaningful way" - making them more 'school-ready'.‌Dr Martha, who has joined forces with BBC Studios to support Bluey's annual theme Playdates with Friends, said: "There is a wealth of science that shows children's early play experiences with peers positively predicts better social skills and peer acceptance in reception class or kindergarten."‌View 3 ImagesPlaydates are the best way to prepare young children for school, according to an expert(Image: © SWNS)The guidance follows a survey of 2,500 parents of three to seven-year-olds from the UK, USA and Australia which revealed 81% arrange a playdate at least once a month.Two thirds believe playdates help their child feel more self-assured around other children, and Dr Martha agrees.‌"In the classroom, children need to share space, take turns and navigate bumps and conflicts with other children," she said. "Playdates give them the chance to begin building those skills before they start school – they are like impromptu mini life-skills workshops."Dr Martha is keen to remind parents that playd...