10 Skills your toddler Learns in our 'Get Ready' class to be ready for organised sport!

That moment when your two-year-old boots a ball across the lounge and you think "Maybe they're the next Matilda's superstar!" Organised sport may feel a long way off – and that is perfectly okay.

Readiness is not about age. It is built through development, and every child gets there in their own time. You do not need these skills before starting. Our Get Ready Program at Ready Steady Go Kids is designed especially for 1.5–2.5 year olds to build all 10 core skills in a supportive, play-based environment across 10 sports, so they are ready for more structured sport classes as they grow. The Get Ready Program supports children and parents from the very first steps, focusing on confidence, movement and play-based learning.

The 10 Skills We Build in our 'Get Ready' Class

1. Enjoyment of Movement
Children are introduced to running, jumping and ball play in fun, varied games so moving feels exciting, not daunting. Confidence grows through success and lots of smiles.

2. Following Simple Instructions
Coaches model and practise one- and two-step cues like "Pick up the ball and bring it here," using demonstrations and visuals to make it easy.

3. Turn-Taking and Patience
Short queues, clear turns and high-repetition stations teach children to wait, cheer for others and have a go when it is their turn.

4. Playing With Others
Partner and small-group activities gently build social play and early teamwork, while respecting each child’s comfort level.

5. Fundamental Movement Skills
Running, balancing, jumping, throwing, catching and kicking are taught explicitly with age-appropriate challenges to build coordination.

6. Bouncing Back From Mistakes
Missed kicks and tumbles are normal. We normalise "try again" moments and teach simple coping strategies to strengthen resilience.

7. Focus for Short Periods
Brief, varied activities help extend attention towards a 30 minute session without overwhelm.

8. Stop–Go Safety
Stop, go and change-direction cues are woven into games with colours, cones and music so safety rules become second nature.

9. Communicating Needs
Children are encouraged to ask for help, water or a turn using words or gestures, building confidence with coaches and peers.

10. Self-Regulation and Rest
Drink breaks, pacing and calm-down resets are built in so children learn when to pause, recharge and rejoin the action.

What to Look for in Programs

Not all toddler sports programs are created equal. Here's what separates the good from the "why did we pay money for this chaos?"

Age-Appropriate Structure
Look for programs specifically designed for your child's age group. A good toddler program won't look like mini adult sport – it should be play-based with lots of variety and minimal waiting around.

Qualified Coaches
Coaches should understand child development and have experience working with young children. They should be patient, encouraging, and know when to adapt activities on the fly.

Focus on Fun Over Competition
Avoid programs that emphasise winning, scores, or comparing children. At this age, it's all about movement, confidence, and enjoyment.

Low coach-to-child ratios
Look for programs with low coach-to-child ratios. This will mean more individual attention and less overwhelming chaos for your little one.

Flexible Approach
Good programs understand that toddlers have off days. Coaches should be flexible when children need breaks, get upset, or just want to do their own thing for a while.

Parent Involvement Options
Some children thrive with parents nearby, others prefer independence. Look for programs that accommodate your child's needs and your family's preferences.

Ready to Take the Plunge?

Remember, there is no rush. If your child is 1.5–2.5 years old, a trial in our Get Ready Program is an easy way to start building the 10 core skills in a calm, playful setting. If they are not quite ready yet, that is normal.

The goal is a lifelong love of movement. The Get Ready Program at Ready Steady Go Kids supports children and parents from the very first steps, focusing on confidence, movement and play-based learning, and preparing little ones for more structured sport classes as they grow.

Trust your instincts, follow your child's lead, and remember – there's no such thing as being "behind" when you're only two years old!