Starting school is a big step in every child’s life—and for many families, it can feel both exciting and overwhelming. At Hope Kids Occupational Therapy, we understand that school readiness goes far beyond learning ABCs and numbers. It’s about helping your child feel confident, capable, and prepared for the challenges and routines of a school environment. That’s why we offer a dedicated School Readiness Program in Melbourne, designed to support children and their families as they transition into their first year of school.
What Is School Readiness?
School readiness isn’t just academic. It includes a wide range of developmental skills that help children adapt to the structure and expectations of a classroom. These skills include:
- Following instructions and routines
- Managing emotions and social interactions
- Using school tools like scissors, pencils, and lunch boxes
- Sitting and focusing for longer periods
- Asking for help and communicating clearly
- Developing confidence and independence
Children develop these skills at different rates. Our program is designed to meet them where they are and guide them at their own pace.
How Our School Readiness Program Works
At Hope Kids OT, our School Readiness Program in Melbourne is delivered by qualified paediatric occupational therapists. We use play-based and evidence-informed strategies to help children build the physical, emotional, and social foundations they need for a smooth transition into Prep.
Our program may be delivered in a small group format or as one-on-one sessions, depending on your child’s needs and preferences. Key areas of focus include:
- Fine motor skills: Holding a pencil, using scissors, opening lunch containers
- Gross motor skills: Strength, balance, and coordination
- Emotional regulation: Managing frustration, anxiety, or separation from caregivers
- Social skills: Sharing, turn-taking, joining group activities
- Executive functioning: Planning, attention, and memory
We also provide practical strategies for parents to support their child’s development at home in the lead-up to school.
Who Is the Program For?
Our School Readiness Program is ideal for children aged 4–6 years who are preparing to start school in the coming year or who have already begun but need extra support. This includes:
- Children with developmental delays or neurodivergent needs (e.g. Autism, ADHD)
- Children who are anxious about school routines or social settings
- Children needing extra support with independence and daily task
- Families who want to boost their child’s confidence before starting school
No formal diagnosis is required to participate.
Why Choose Hope Kids OT?
Hope Kids Occupational Therapy is trusted by families across Melbourne for our warm, practical, and evidence-based approach to paediatric care. Here’s why parents choose our School Readiness Program:
- Therapists who understand kids – Our team is made up of experienced, friendly OTs who work with children every day.
- Tailored support – We adapt the program to meet your child’s unique needs and learning style.
- Welcoming clinic spaces – Designed with kids in mind, our environments are safe, engaging, and calming.
- Flexible delivery options – Choose from in-clinic, mobile, or telehealth sessions, depending on what works for your family.
We support families through our locations in Mount Waverley, Wantirna, Blackburn, and Burwood East, as well as with mobile visits and online sessions throughout Melbourne.
When Should I Start?
Ideally, children join our School Readiness Program during the year before they start Prep, but it’s never too early—or too late—to support your child’s confidence and independence. Whether you’re looking to give them a head start or catch up on key skills, we’re here to help.
Let’s Get Ready Together
Starting school is a milestone, and every child deserves to feel prepared and excited for this new chapter. At Hope Kids Occupational Therapy, we’re proud to walk alongside families during this important time, offering support, strategies, and encouragement every step of the way.
