Back-to-school reading

Parents and kids should talk about anxieties that they may be feeling about making new friends, meeting new teachers and tackling new subjects.

What are some of the things we can do to keep kids organized throughout the year?

Get organized. Organization in the beginning of the school sets an example and will set the tone for kids throughout.

Kids always need to have certain paperwork to start school, how can we make this process run smoothly?

Get papers in order. Find out what paperwork your children need - vaccinations, certificates, etc.

During the school year family members having different schedules, how can they keep up with each other? Create a calendar and file central. Set up an area with a calendar and labeled files so that everyone will know after-school activities, lessons etc.

New supplies are hard to find especially when you wait last minute, how can families avoid this?

Stock up on supplies. Make a list of everything needed for the coming year early, from socks to crayons.

What are some ways to start and keep a good relationship with kids' teachers?

Get to know your child's teacher. Introduce yourself, mention the best way to contact you with questions or problems, and give the teacher a history of problems if there are any.

What else can kids and parents do to have a successful school year?

Families should always remember to keep READING! Reading is one of the best ways to stay sharp.

Suggested books:

HOW DO DINOSAURS GO TO SCHOOL? By Jane Yolen and Mark Teague

Ages 3-5
Another installment in the popular "How Do Dinosaurs?" series

I'M YOUR BUS By Marilyn Singer

Ages 3-5
A great book for parents and kids to read together - especially if kids are riding the school bus for the first time!

HAPPY SCHOOL YEAR By Susan Milord

Ages 4-8
A reassuring read for kids who are nervous about their first day of school.

OFF TO KINDERGARTEN By Tony Johnston

Ages 4-8
A great book to read the night before the first day of school.

THE 39 CLUES: THE BLACK CIRCLE by Patrick Carman

Ages 9+
Where are Amy and Dan Cahill? They were last seen in Egypt, hunting for one of the 39 Clues that could make them the most powerful people on earth, but no one has seen them since. Has the ruthless Irina Spasky finally tracked them down?

BOBBY VS GIRLS (ACCIDENTALLY) By Lisa Yee

Ages 9-12
Boys and girls will appreciate the true-to-life struggles of Bobby Ellis-Chan in this heartfelt and humorous story.

HOW I SURVIVED MIDDLE SCHOOL Series By Nancy Krulik

Ages 9-12
Perfect for tween girls - this popular series deals with friendship, boy troubles, and other issues that tweens can relate to.

CATCHING FIRE By Suzanne Collins

Ages 12+
If they've read The Hunger Games, the first book in the trilogy, Catching Fire will definitely excite readers and keep them on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

THE COMEBACK By Marlene Perez

Ages 12+
Teen girls will love this book, which is filled with high school drama!

To learn more about these books, visit www.scholasticstore.com.