At Howletch Lane Primary School, we believe that children learn best when they feel ready, confident, and emotionally prepared. That’s why we begin each morning with our special ‘Preparation for Learning’ sessions – dedicated time from 08.50 – 09.20 that helps every child start their day in the best possible way. Our morning sessions include a carefully planned mix of activities which can include:
Fine Motor Skills Practice – Fun activities like threading, cutting, and drawing that strengthen the small muscles in children’s hands and fingers, getting them ready for writing and other detailed classroom tasks.
Gross Motor Skills Activities – Movement exercises that help children develop coordination, balance, and body awareness. This might include stretching, dancing, or simple physical challenges that wake up their bodies and brains and help to develop the larger muscles necessary for writing.
Turn Taking Games – Structured activities that help children practice patience, sharing, and social skills in a supportive environment.
Emotional Literacy Time – Using Zones of Regulation across the school, provides opportunities for children to talk about how their feelings, learn to recognise different emotions and develop strategies for managing their feelings throughout the day.
Reading Catch-ups – Personalised reading support for children who need extra help, ensuring no one falls behind and everyone feels confident with their reading skills.
Check-ins with Adults – One-to-one or small group time where children can share any concerns, celebrate successes, or simply connect with a trusted adult before the busy school day begins.
Why This Approach Works
Research consistently shows that children learn more effectively when their physical, emotional, and social needs are met first. By starting each day with these preparation activities, we’re helping our pupils:
- Feel calmer and more focused – Physical movement and emotional check-ins help regulate the nervous system, making it easier to concentrate on learning tasks.
- Build essential life skills – Fine and gross motor skills are the foundation for handwriting, sports, and countless daily activities. Social skills like turn-taking are crucial for friendships and group work.
- Develop emotional resilience – When children can understand and express their feelings, they’re better equipped to handle challenges and bounce back from setbacks.
- Close learning gaps early – Regular reading catch-ups mean we can spot and address any difficulties quickly, preventing them from becoming bigger problems later.
- Form positive relationships – Daily check-ins help build trust between children and adults, creating a supportive environment where every child feels valued and heard.
Our aim is that children who participate in these morning sessions:
- Arrive at school more eagerly and settle into their day more easily
- Show improved handwriting and fine motor control
- Demonstrate better emotional regulation and problem-solving skills
- Display increased confidence in social situations
- Make steady progress in their reading and overall academic development
- Form stronger relationships with both peers and teachers
Supporting Best Practice
This approach aligns with current educational research that emphasises the importance of meeting children’s developmental needs holistically. Rather than jumping straight into academic content, we recognise that learning happens best when children feel secure, physically prepared, and emotionally ready.
Our Preparation for Learning sessions ensure that every child, regardless of their starting point or circumstances, begins each day with the same opportunities to succeed. It’s our way of making sure that all children have the best possible foundation for their learning journey.
If you have any questions about our Preparation for Learning sessions or would like to know how you can support similar activities at home, please don’t hesitate to speak with your child’s teacher.
