Starting Reception : A new definition can help Early Years Settings share their ethos with parents

As many children enter their final term before starting school, parents often worry about academic skills like writing names or counting to 20. But a new set of guidelines from leading early years organisations aims to shift the focus. Developed to support parents, educators, and primary staff, the initiative addresses the mismatch in expectations, highlighted by a Kindred Squared survey showing 90% of parents felt their child was ready for school, while only a third of teachers agreed. The goal? Clear, accessible guidance to help everyone support children’s development and ease the transition into Reception.

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Written by Rebecca Oberg, Director: Institute for the Early Years