The full first day of school in Hamilton County is Monday Aug. 13. With that in mind, the Times Free Press Life staff has assembled this page of advice for parents and kids about to embark on a new school year.
FIVE TIPS FOR PARENTS OF KINDERGARTNERS
1. Start now getting children into a bedtime routine — both going to bed on time, as well as getting up at the same hour they will during the school year.
2. Parents should remain positive and excited when speaking about the start of school, even if they are sad about children leaving them on the first day.
3. Help children get organized ahead of their first day. Pack backpacks the night before, decide where backpacks will be kept at home. Practice opening lunchbox containers, so children feel comfortable when they go it alone at school.
4. If the child doesn’t have an older sibling and is not familiar with the school building, visit the school in advance. Drive through the car route and show your child where drop-off/pickup is. Walk through the building to find bathrooms, classrooms and cafeteria.