Playing, Learning & Getting Ready for School
Preschool & Kindy Children
The preschool and kindy years are full of play, new friendships and growing independence.
Some children find parts of this stage harder. They might find busy rooms or loud noises overwhelming, struggle to sit for group time, or find dressing, drawing or joining in with friends tricky.
The Preschool Years: Building Foundations Through Play
During the preschool years, children develop important skills through movement, exploration, communication and play.
Movement & Coordination
Running, jumping, climbing, balancing and developing body awareness.
Fine Motor Skills
Drawing, using scissors, manipulating toys and early pencil skills.
Speech & Language
Expressing ideas, understanding instructions and developing conversations.
Sensory Processing & Regulation
Responding to sounds, touch, movement and managing big feelings.
Independence
Dressing, feeding, toileting and everyday routines.
Play & Friendships
Imaginative play, sharing, turn-taking and connecting with others.
Getting Ready for Prep
Starting school asks a lot of young children: following group routines, managing their belongings and moving between activities, often in a busy, noisy space.
Group Time & Listening
Sitting for group time, following instructions and joining in with activities.
Early Pencil Skills
Holding a pencil, drawing shapes and using scissors with growing control.
Playground Confidence
Climbing, running and balancing, and the strength to sit and play for longer.
Talking & Understanding
Asking for help, following directions and sharing ideas with others.
Managing Big Feelings
Coping with separation, change and busy environments.
Self-Care & Belongings
Toileting, opening lunchboxes, putting on shoes and packing their bag.
Let's take a closer look...
Things parents often notice
At home
- Needs help with every part of dressing or self-care
- Struggles to stop, slow down or settle for sleep
- Finds transitions particularly difficult
- Needs constant reminders to get ready
At kindy & play
- Avoids drawing, puzzles or craft activities
- Finds it hard to join in or play alongside other children
- Becomes upset when plans or routines change
- Seems tired, upset or unsettled after kindy
Has your child's educator said something like this?
Common Classroom Observations
- “They struggle to follow more than one instruction at a time.”
- “They need frequent reminders to stay on task.”
- “They find it hard to copy actions or movements.”
- “They won’t join in with fine motor activities.”
- “They get silly or giddy when something new is introduced.”
- “They struggle with transitions.”
- “They don’t play well with other children.”
- “They get upset if play doesn’t go their way.”
- “They need more help than expected with toileting.”
- “They need help opening their lunchbox or unpacking their bag.”
- “They struggle to put on their shoes and socks.”
- “They find carpet time or group activities difficult.”
- “They zone out as the day goes on.”
Individualised Therapy, Centred Around Your Child
We bring together occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech therapy to provide a truly holistic approach. Using Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) assessment and intervention, we focus on purposeful play that is tailored to your child's unique needs. We believe in working closely with both families and educators to ensure your child feels supported and secure in every environment. For children under school age, this is part of our Early Intervention approach.
Occupational Therapy
Sensory processing, regulation, motor planning and everyday independence.
Physiotherapy
Movement, strength, balance, posture and physical coordination.
Speech Therapy
Speech, language, communication and social connection.
Wondering If Your Child Could Benefit From Extra Support?
Every child grows and changes at their own pace. Sometimes they just need a little extra help to navigate new stages of development or feel more confident in their daily world.
We are here to listen, support, and help your family find the best way forward. Whether you have specific questions or just want to explore how we can help, our team is ready to walk this journey with you.