School readiness means more than learning letters and numbers—it’s about nurturing curious, confident, and capable young minds. But one often overlooked ingredient is early exposure to structured literacy, woven seamlessly into playful, meaningful experiences.
Structured literacy is not about flashcards or rigid lessons. It’s a research-backed approach that supports how children learn to read most effectively—through explicit, systematic instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension. When introduced in the early years, through a play-based lens, it strengthens foundational language skills while preserving the joy and creativity that make childhood so magical.
Singing rhyming songs, blending sounds in a game of Bingo or Simon Says, and going on a “letter sound hunt” outdoors all support structured literacy goals in ways that feel fun, active, and developmentally appropriate.
Too often, we wait until children fall behind before providing this support. But early intervention is prevention. By embedding structured literacy into play-based learning, we give all children a stronger foundation for future success.
We know that strong early literacy skills are a predictor of future academic success. And we know that play is how young children learn best. So let’s stop asking whether school readiness should focus on academics or play. Let’s do both—intentionally, joyfully, and with purpose.
By Kellyanne Cazeau, The Reading Village
The Reading Village offers structured literacy tuition for primary-aged students and homeschoolers across the Sunshine Coast. Their School Readiness program is now available at Northshore Community Centre, Mudjimba
Spanning Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and beyond, Kids on the Coast is an online guide and printed free magazine for parents. With kids events and activities, attractions & things to do with kids, schools and education, school holiday guides, health & wellbeing for families, parenting and lifestyle news. Located on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Brisbane, QLD.
