Is your Grade R child ready for Grade 1?

School readiness covers far more than reading and writing. Use this free checklist to see where your child stands across all 35 readiness skills - and get a personalised next step.

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Independence

Carries own bag and unpacks independentlyDoes up buttons and zips aloneDresses independently, working on shoelacesBlows own nose; sneezes into elbowHas regular household choresPractices good hygiene (handwashing etc.)"Drop and go" - can separate without distress

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Social

Greets friends and teachers on arrivalSpeaks with polite manners (please, thank you)Takes responsibility for clothing and belongingsCan verbalise conflict and try to problem-solve

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Literacy

Listens to a story without interruptingRecalls characters, plot and story detailsKnows phonics sounds and can match letters to soundsBlends sounds together to make wordsIdentifies rhyming wordsPronounces sounds and words clearlyWrites own name from memory with correct letter formationKnows full name, surname, birthdate and home addressKnows first 5 digits of parent's phone number

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Numeracy

Identifies numbers 1–15 confidentlySolves simple number sums using objectsNames and draws 2D shapes, names propertiesKnows which is left and which is rightKnows days of the week, months, seasonsDescribes the weather each dayRemembers a sequence (what comes 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th)

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Cognitive

Builds a 48-piece puzzle with confidenceFollows a sequence of 3 or more instructionsRemembers the order of daily routines

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Physical

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Drawing

Draws a person with body parts, 3D limbs, face details

Want everything done for you?

The complete Grade R bundle includes a structured 6-week programme, activity instructions for every item on this checklist, printable chore charts, phonics cards, and more. R349 once-off - no subscription needed.

See the Grade R bundle

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