Children’s earliest experiences and environments set the stage for future development and success in school and life. Early experiences influence brain development, establishing the neural connections that provide the foundation for language, problem solving, social skills and emotional health. That’s why success in school begins before a child ever enters a classroom. This short course explores the concepts of school readiness, stages of language and literacy development, basic components of early literacy and numeracy, the interaction of social and emotional development, the roles of adults in developing a positive learning environment for children and the strategies on how parents and teachers support the readiness of young children at home and in the classroom. The participants will be engaged in various activities and learning experiences to understand the ‘Ready Child Equation’ to describe the range of components that influence children’s ability to be ready for school.

1. To understand the meaning and importance of school readiness
2. To support adults in promoting children’s early literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional learning and improve school readiness