Start Homeschooling Grade R with confidence 
 
Homeschooling pre-school or Grade R should feel fun, doable, and child-centered—not overwhelming. This Pre-School & Grade R Info Pack for Parents walks you through the early steps of getting started, how to think about readiness beyond age alone, and how to build the foundational skills that matter most through play-based, hands-on learning.
 
Kindergarten/Grade R learners are new to “sit-down work” and do best with brief, focused lessons and lots of hands-on learning. This info pack helps you build a simple, child-centered plan that keeps learning playful, realistic, and sustainable.
 
What you’ll learn inside
 
1) How to tell if your child is ready
Many children start Grade R in the year they turn five, but readiness is about more than age—it includes interest, listening, and the ability to focus in short bursts.
 
2) The 6 key skill areas to support (school readiness foundations)
 
You’ll see the main developmental areas to look at as you prepare for Grade R:
Language & Communication
Reading & Writing
Math & Reasoning
Social & Emotional
Fine & Gross Motor
Independence
 
3) Simple, practical activities to build skills through play
Includes easy ideas for fine motor and social development (and more), using everyday materials and gentle practice.
 
4) A curated curriculum list (so you can choose a “best fit”)
You’ll get a clear list of popular pre-school/Grade R curriculum options (including SA-friendly choices and Afrikaans CAPS options).
 
Included FAQs (quick answers parents need)
How many hours a week? (Suggested routine for formal learning + plenty of educational play.)
What subjects should we do? (Typical Grade R focus areas.)
What curriculum is best? (How to choose based on your child + long-term pathway.)
DBE registration guidance (homeschool legalities and where to read more).
Homeschooling neurodivergent children (support link included inside the pack).
 
Bonus: a gentle schedule mindset
 
You’re encouraged to plan a routine that’s flexible, child-centered, and self-paced—with games, field trips, art, music, and lots of unstructured play.
 
What’s included
1 × Digital PDF Info Pack (instant download)
Readiness guidance + foundational skill areas
Practical play-based activity ideas
Curriculum options list + links inside the PDF
FAQ section (hours, subjects, curriculum choice, DBE, neurodivergent support)
 
Format: Digital download (PDF).
Note: This resource includes curated external links and curriculum suggestions for parent convenience.