Here's how to prepare your kids for back-to-school

BALTIMORE -- The transition from summer break into the school year can get a little overwhelming. Whether it's your child's first year, they're starting a new school, or simply returning, creating a back-to-school to-do list can relieve a lot of stress.

Parents can do the following to get their kids prepared for a successful school year, according to The Kids Mental Health Foundation :

• Talk about and practice any expected changes
• Jumpstart school routines
• Get organized at home
• Talk about expectations
• Connect with the school

The American Academy of Pediatrics, says its beneficial for families to focus on the fun, friendship, and adventure that awaits in the new school year.

The AAP also suggests engaging in conversations with your child about how they use social media. Parents should create an open, safe space for their child to discuss tough issues, and make it clear that it is a judgment-free zone.

Visit the academy's website to view the full 12-tip list on how to prepare for the return to school .

Enroll in the 2024-2025 school year

If it's your first time enrolling your child in school, know which district they'll be in based on your home address.

Enrollment information for students in Baltimore City is listed here ; Baltimore County here ; Anne Arundel County here ; Howard County here ; Harford County here ; Cecil County here ; and Carroll County here .

Schedule required vaccinations

Maryland schools require students to be fully vaccinated against a handful of viruses and diseases. Click here to view the immunization requirements for children enrolled in preschool programs and kindergarten through 12 grade.

Students who do not adhere to immunization requirements may not be admitted or retained in school without evidence of an upcoming appointment.

Back-to-school supplies

Most schools provide a list of items students will need before the first day of class, so check your school's website. Some may provide lists on the first day with specifics for each class.

Make a checklist and decipher which supplies you may have already and which you need to restock.

Sample School Supply List

• Backpack
  
• Notebooks (multiple colors)
• Writing Utensils
• Scissors
• Highlighters
• Folders
• Composition Books
• Graphing Calculator
• Hand Sanitizer
• Water bottle

Establish routines early

Establishing a morning and nighttime regimen before school starts is a great habit to incorporate into your children's daily routine. Doing so will help a smooth transition from summer break to school time.

Discuss things like reasonable bedtimes and what time cell phones and other electronics should be turned off. Is homework getting done right after school? After activities? Just before bed? How long does it take your child to get out the door in the morning, and set alarms accordingly.

Check out our article on how to prepare for a successful school year.

Additional back-to-school tips can be found at healthychildren.org .

Dates to know

Anne Arundel County

• Aug. 26: First day for grades 1-6, and 9 only
• Aug. 27: First day for grades 1-12
• Thanksgiving Break: Nov. 27-29
• Winter Break: Dec. 23-Jan. 1
• Spring Break: April 14-21
• Last Day: June 13

Baltimore City Public Schools

• First day: Aug. 26
• Thanksgiving break: Nov. 27-29
• Winter break: Dec. 23-Jan. 1
• Spring break: April 14-21
• Last day: June 11

Baltimore County Public Schools

• First day: Aug. 26
  
• Thanksgiving break: Nov. 27-29
  
• Winter break: Dec. 23-Jan. 1
• Spring break: April 14-21
• Last day: June 16

Carrol County Public Schools

• First day: Sept. 3
• Thanksgiving break: Nov. 28-29
• Winter break: Dec. 23-Jan. 1
• Spring break: April 17-22
• Last day: June 13

Cecil County Public Schools

• First day: Sept. 3
• Thanksgiving break: Nov. 27-29
• Winter break: Dec. 23-Jan. 3
• Spring break: April 18-22
• Last day: June 13

Harford County Public Schools

• First day: Sept. 3
• Thanksgiving break: Nov. 28-29
  
• Winter break: Dec. 23-Jan. 1
• Spring break: April 17-21
• Last day: June 12

Howard County Public Schools

• First day: Aug. 26
• Thanksgiving break: Nov. 27-29
• Winter break: Dec. 23-Jan. 1
• Spring break: April 14-21
• Last day: June 11