More children are starting school without the skills they need to feel confident, settled, and ready to learn — and it's not because parents don't care. In this episode, Ashley explores why so many nursery-aged children are being described as “not school ready," what professionals across early years and education are seeing, and how small, everyday changes at home can make a big difference. With warmth, honesty, and practical guidance, this episode covers speech and language development, independence, toileting, screen use, and the simple skills that truly prepare children for school — without panic, blame, or unrealistic expectations.