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Writer's pictureMary-Ellen Rooney

Why School Readiness at Tightrope Learning?

Becoming “school ready” is actually more than only focusing on the child’s academic needs. We believe through our philosophy that it begins with a holistic approach including academic, physical, emotional and social aspects which are all developed and mastered through play.


Is your child able to

  • open their own lunchbox, ziplock bag and cling wrap?

  • identify their photo or name tag?

  • write their own name?

  • put on their own school uniform, hat, socks, shoes, jumper, raincoat, backpack?

  • take themselves to the toilet and wash their hands correctly?

  • ask their teacher or parent helper for help when they feel nervous, worried or don’t understand what they need to do?

  • regulate their emotions when another child upsets them?

  • look at someone’s eyes as they listen?

  • use their words rather than resort to being physical when another child invades their personal space or takes something of theirs?

  • wait patiently for their turn or stand in line without always being the leader?

  • persist when problem solving or playing a challenging game?

  • follow a 3 step instruction (put your things away, get your hat, then wait at the door)


How does Tightrope Learning develop these skills?


  • By firstly providing the children with loads of fine motor skills which develop their little finger and hand muscles.

  • By organising their drink bottle, lunch box and take home work into their own backpack.

  • By having the children model, trace, copy and independently write their name.

  • By playing lots of dress up games which involve buttons, zippers, velcro and press studs.

  • By supervising and teaching correct hygiene practices.

  • By providing opportunities for role play and social skills in small groups, which encourage children to feel safe to speak and listen to one another respectfully.

  • By providing a “calm area” where children can choose from a variety of strategies to calm themselves and self regulate their emotions.

  • By playing games which promote the skill of following a leader, being a leader, lining up, waiting for and taking turns.

  • By introducing the children to challenging puzzles and games which allow them to understand they may not always win.

  • By providing 3 step instructions.

  • By participating in a variety of gross motor activities which teach coordination. This allows the kids to speed up their bodies for outside play with their friends, then calming themselves back down when it's time for classroom learning.


By creating a happy, vibrant and safe learning space, where children can take risks and know that it’s ok to make mistakes as they're learning. For more information and all 2023 enquiries, contact us today!

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