Many learnings of the child will start at the start of the school year in the small section. But having certain skills and knowledge is important for this beginning of schooling to go well. Which ones? A school teacher answers us.
According to a survey published in January 2025 by the Kindred Square Foundation, 28 % of the children of the United Kingdom who started the British equivalent of the small section in 2024 “Use books incorrectly”. Some also have motor deficits, for example, they cannot go up the stairs. A phenomenon that alerts teachers, but not necessarily families: 44 % of them declare that they do not judge useful that their child knows how to manipulate a book before entering school.
It must be said that, among all the advice given to parents, we do not necessarily talk about what it is important to master at the entrance to the small section. “We cannot expect a child to already know how to do everything – it would be unrealistic! However, some basic skills can greatly facilitate his adaptation to school and allow him to approach this new stage with more serenity”explains Marie Martinat to us (@Maitresse_Mariemartinat on social networks), teacher of schools.
In terms of motor skills, the founder of the Martinat French-American School explains to us that“It is important that a child can move independently, whether by walking, going up stairs or running, while being aware of his body in space”. He must know certain everyday gestures (open his bag, remove his coat …), but not necessarily knowing how to hold a pencil or scissors. The ideal is also that he understands simple instructions (“sit down”, “we get into ranks”, “come here”, etc.), and “Let him be understood, whether in words, gestures or facial expressions, so that adults can meet his needs “. He has to know and understand the safety instructions, like not to leave the class alone, run, paying attention, not put anything in his mouth. Even if “These concepts will be reinforced in school “have “A first approach at home is preferable”. Regarding skills, “A child must therefore learn to wait for his turn, accept the presence of others and start managing his emotions”.
As for continence, the law prohibits refusing to school a child who has not acquired it. But, if it is clean, it’s better. Marie Martinat explains: “In practice, there are always small accidents, and it is completely normal! Some children can forget to go to the toilet while playing, or not daring to ask an adult that they do not yet know well”. If one of these skills is lacking in your child, do not panic. “Teachers are used to these maturity differences, but it is always better to inform them if your child encounters a little difficulty”concludes Marie Martinat.
