BIG SCHOOL READY. SET. GO!

A very subjective view from a first time Grade 1 mom and occupational therapist.

By: Chantelle Vischer (Occupational Therapist, Mother of 2, owner of Brave Development)

It’s that time of year again—the Grade 1 readiness assessments are looming closer. For reasons unbeknownst to me, it’s also the time when most occupational therapy practices receive frantic calls from parents and teachers alike, seeking clarity, compassion, and assistance.

FIRST DAY OF BIG SCHOOL FOR OUR BIG BOY TROY

Well! It just so happens that I, myself, have become a first-time Grade 1 mommy this year. Although this phase of entering ‘big school’ has been a blessing and an honour, it has also been a shock to both my system and that of my beautifully busy boy. Let’s just say it’s been humbling, to say the least. So, this article is written—very intentionally—from a subjective point of view.

To be frank, looking back, in my 10 years of practicing as a pediatric occupational therapist, the advice and guidance I’ve offered to parents during this daunting yet exciting time of school readiness has mainly been based on an objective and informative perspective. But oh, how the tides have changed! It’s a completely different experience going through these milestones as a mother rather than as a professional. And to be honest, I wish someone had shared these insights with me leading up to this big transitional period in our family’s life.

Firstly, and probably most importantly—

Dearest Brave Parent, you can do hard things! And so can your children. Our children are far more resilient than we often give them credit for—especially when they have parents who back them wholeheartedly. Don’t let doubt and uncertainty steal the joy and excitement of this season you’re in.

Secondly, arm yourself with the facts—which I’m happy to share with you here—instead of relying on hearsay or the opinions and gossip that can easily circulate in the school parking lot.

A school readiness assessment is a tool or guide—not a test. It’s designed to benefit and support our children, not to create a long list of their shortcomings. Its purpose is to highlight any areas of development that may need further refinement before starting Grade 1. This allows us to send our little learners to ‘big school’ with a firm foundation for learning, growing, and flourishing. Although different schools may use different measures or standardized assessments, your child can usually be retested within 3 to 6 months of the initial evaluation. These assessments typically cover a wide range of sensory-motor, language and communication, and socio-emotional developmental milestones.

Thirdly, we encourage parents to take the pressure off. Unnecessary pressure often does more harm than good. No child, parent, or teacher can “cram” for a school readiness assessment. In fact, the assessment is specifically designed to view the child holistically—not just developmentally. I always remind parents that children develop in stages, and that ages are merely guidelines.

So, instead of falling into an unnecessary “freak-out” or placing unrealistic and frantic pressure on yourself or your child, rather consider embracing the 5 P’s of Purposeful Parenting. These can help ease your child into the idea of the school readiness assessment and the transition to Grade 1.

Preparation - Take your child to the space where they’ll be assessed once or twice, about 1–2 weeks prior to the assessment. Talk them through what to expect. Use language like:

“This is where you’re going to practice big school.”

“It’s going to be a fun day where you and some friends will do some big school work.”

Prepare them by explaining that a teacher will fetch them and bring them back to you—you won’t be going into the class with them. Reassure them that it’s a safe space for learning and, most importantly, fun.

Positive & Realistic Reinforcement -

More than anything, your child needs to believe in themselves and their abilities. Positive reinforcement builds confidence, which in turn fosters curiosity, exploration, and a healthy sense of pride. Celebrate their effort rather than perfection. Affirm their strengths and help them view this experience as a new adventure, not a test of worth.

Realistic feedback helps keep our children grounded. Use affirming language like:

“You are kind.”

“You’re a hard worker.”

“You always try your very best.”

“You can be proud of yourself.”

“You are brave.”

Children who develop a realistic self-esteem are more likely to challenge themselves and persevere through new or difficult experiences.

Presence - Did you know that the number one predictor of socio-emotional school readiness is a healthy attachment to a child’s primary caregiver (i.e., their parents)? This isn’t just important now, but always. Make time for undivided, uninterrupted, child-led play. Look your child in the eyes. Hug them as often as you can. Let them know they are loved, wanted, and celebrated. Your presence is the foundation of their security and confidence.

Patience - Remember to breathe—especially on the day of the assessment. Stick to your usual school morning routine and allow enough time to start the day slow and unhurried, for both yourself and your child. Calm energy is contagious.

And one more ‘P’ we hold dear… Pray.

Here at Brave Development, we believe deeply in the power of prayer. We pray for every child and every family who walks through our doors. Prayer is how we center ourselves, gather strength, and surround our children with love and protection.

If you feel overwhelmed or uncertain, please reach out to an occupational therapist near you. Occupational therapists are experts in child development. They can offer practical, task-oriented input and serve as a point of reference—or referral—if further support is needed.