Summary
The City of York Council in England is giving parents a guide on toilet training along with primary school place offers to help prepare children for school. The government wants most kids to have basic skills, like using the toilet and speaking well, before starting school in September.
Key Facts
- York Council sent potty-training leaflets to 1,700 families together with school place offers.
- Teachers report many children start school without basic skills such as toilet training and communication.
- A government goal is for 75% of children to reach a good development level by the end of reception year.
- Schools lose time because staff must change nappies, taking away from teaching.
- Parent workshops and public information in places like pharmacies and clinics support this effort.
- Key skills for school readiness include dressing, using cutlery, sharing, and expressing feelings.
- Health officials encourage parents to seek help if their child is behind without feeling pressured.
- Parents appreciate guidance but want it to be supportive, not judgmental.
