Winston Lake Family Day

Come Join the Fun!

Bring the entire family out to Winston Lake Family Day! The event will be held on Sunday, August 16, 4-8 p.m., at Winston Lake Park (event will be by the lake).

You will Enjoy:

* Live Music: Gospel, R&B, Jazz & more!
* Family Comedian
* Guest host from 102 Jamz
* Free school supplies (while they last)
* Free T-shirts (while they last)
* Free boat rides on Winston Lake
* FREE FOOD with a canned food donation. Bring at least 1 can of food for the Second Harvest Food Bank and get a FREE MEAL courtesy of the Winston Lake Senior Golf Association.

For your comfort, please bring a lawn chair. If you have any further questions please call 734-1221.

What's on our bookshelf....

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

Chrysanthemum is the name of the mouse in this adorable book. She had always thought that her name was perfect until she got to school and realized how unique it was. Several children made fun of her and reduced her to tears every day. Chrysanthemum felt better after talking to her parents but was still hurt by her classmate's ridicule. Eventually Chrysanthemum and her classmates learn that a special person in their lives thinks that Chrysanthemum's name is so beautiful that she wants to give her baby the name. This feel-good story is sure to touch those with unique and unfamiliar names and those who deal with bullies.

Kickoff to Kindergarten Event

The Children's Museum of Winston Salem is having a Kickoff to Kindergarten event on Saturday, August 15 from 11 am to 2 pm. Children will have the opportunity to climb aboard an actual school bus to learn about bus safety, go through a "pretend" lunch line (featuring healthy snacks), make crafts, hear stories, learn how to follow directions, explore the Museum, and much more. This event is free with paid admission or Museum membership.

Friday 7/24 is the Deadline for Requesting New Bus Stops

July 24th is the deadline for requesting new bus stops. This will be the last day that students, parents and caregivers can request a new bus stop with the expectation of having service on the first day of school on Aug. 25.

This is the form to request a stop. Print and complete the form and return it to your child's school

You can read more information on the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System website and on the Winston-Salem Journal website.

Preparing for School

Summer is almost over! Wow, time flies. You may have noticed that the school supply displays are now up in stores which means it’s time once again to begin preparation for the school year. The Tax Free Weekend is almost upon us (August 7-9) so get your lists ready. The Winston Salem Forsyth County School System has adopted standardized school supply lists for all grade levels that can be found on the school system’s website.

The best way for you to get your child ready for school is to get them excited about it and make sure they feel comfortable. Here are some tips:

• Talk about how fun school is and share stories about your experiences.
• Arrange a tour so your child can become familiar with where things are.
• Attend the school’s open house and have your child meet their teacher.
• Have a picnic lunch at the school’s playground.
• Frequently drive the route that your child will take to school.

There are several books specifically written for Kindergartners to help ease their fears. Here is a sample of books to look for at your local library or bookstore:

• Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate
• The Night Before Kindergarten by Natasha Wing
• Look Out Kindergartner, Here I come! By Nancy Carlson
• Welcome to Kindergarten by Anne Rockwell
• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

When preparing your child for school is it very important to establish a daily routine with plenty of time for homework and sleep. Set aside a specific time of day and a quiet place for homework. Go over the homework with your child to convey the message that education is important for both of you. Preschoolers need between 10 and 12 hours of sleep including their afternoon nap. Lack of sleep does not allow a child’s body to properly rejuvenate itself and may trigger night terrors, so be sure your child goes to bed at a reasonable time.

Preparing for school is a lot of work but very important. Always remember that your attitude about education influences your child greatly so be excited but also be realistic and sincere.

What's on our bookshelf.....

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn - Illustrated by Ruth E. Harper and Nancy M. Leak

The Kissing Hand is a wonderful story about a raccoon who is a little apprehensive about starting school. Mom tells him a secret called the Kissing Hand which will help him get through the time spent away from her. This book is perfect for any child that will be temporarily separated from their parents for occasions such as school, a sleepover, or summer camp. It also helps the moms and dads who are a little apprehensive too.