Survey Reveals Children Struggling with Basic Motor Skills at School Entry
A recent survey of 1,000 primary teachers in England and Wales conducted by market research group Savanta on behalf of the early years charity Kindred2 has shed light on the concerning trend of declining school readiness among reception-aged children. The findings paint a picture of children entering school ill-prepared, with some unable to climb a staircase and others resorting to Americanisms in their speech due to excessive screen time.
The Impact of the Pandemic
The ongoing pandemic has been cited as a significant factor contributing to the deterioration in school readiness. According to the survey, 49% of teachers believe that the problem has worsened over the past year. However, some educators are starting to question whether the “Covid baby” explanation is simply becoming an excuse for the lack of proper preparation.
Government Initiatives and Parental Responsibility
The government has recognized the importance of school readiness and has made it a core mission to ensure that 75% of children reach a good level of development by the time they enter reception. Despite this, the survey’s director, Felicity Gillespie, expressed concerns that many parents are failing to adequately support their children’s development, despite having their best interests at heart.
Teacher Testimonials and Concerns
Teachers participating in the survey shared troubling accounts of children arriving at school in nappies, lacking basic motor skills, and exhibiting underdeveloped muscles, likely due to excessive screen use. One teacher in the north-west recounted having two students who struggled to sit on the carpet due to a lack of core strength. Another educator reported an increase in “delayed walkers” who exhibited clumsy movements and were unable to climb stairs.
Parental Perspectives and Challenges
While 44% of parents surveyed felt that children starting school should know how to use books correctly, turning the pages instead of swiping or tapping as if using an electronic device, there was a significant discrepancy between parental perceptions and teacher evaluations of school readiness. Despite 90% of parents believing their children were ready for school, one in three children were deemed unprepared by teachers.
Challenges in Access to Health Visitors
Both parents and teachers acknowledged the impact of limited access to health visitors on school readiness. Government guidelines recommend five visits from health visitors during pregnancy and the early years, yet 63% of parents reported receiving only up to two visits, with 21% having no contact at all. This lack of support has undoubtedly contributed to the challenges faced by families in preparing their children for school.
Expert Insights and Calls for Action
Tiffnie Harris, a primary specialist at the Association of School and College Leaders, emphasized the disconnect between parents and schools regarding school readiness. She highlighted the economic and social pressures facing many families and the need for enhanced support systems. Early education minister Stephen Morgan acknowledged the issue, emphasizing the importance of ensuring children are ready for the classroom to allow teachers to focus on their core responsibilities.
In conclusion, the survey findings underscore the urgent need for a collaborative effort between parents, educators, policymakers, and support services to address the root causes of declining school readiness. By recognizing the challenges faced by families and providing adequate resources and support, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to start their educational journey on the right foot.
