When kids have everything they need for school, they're more likely to have a smooth first day.

Early September can be a stressful and anxious time for children, as they prepare to head off into the unknown of a new school year. But as with any new venture, knowledge, preparation, and the right supplies can be important keys to success. If you want your kids to start school off on the right foot, make sure they have everything they'll need to make it safely and happily through that first day.

Ellen Dougherty worked as a teacher at South Pasadena, California's Marengo Elementary School for 12 years in the primary grades, and received her Master's Degree in Teaching and Learning from Pt. Loma. A year after earning her administrative credential, Dougherty became the school's principal, a job she has held for past 3 years. She is in her third year as a doctoral candidate in Organizational Leadership at the University of La Verne. Here she explains how to prepare your kids for their first day of school:

• Know the dress codes.
  When you're sending your child to school for the first time, their clothing is really important. Many schools now have dress codes, so before you go shopping, check the school website, student handbook, or any school mailings you might have received during the summer.
  
• Avoid open-toed shoes.
  Open-toed shoes are not a good idea. When kids are playing and running on the play yard they can get hurt pretty easily, so always send them to school with sturdy footwear.
  
• Ask about sun protection.
  Make sure to pack your child's backpack with sunscreen and a hat, to provide sun protection out on the playground. If the school dress code forbids hats, ask if there's an exception for outdoor activities.
  
• Pack you kid's lunch.
  Even if you plan to let your kids buy their midday meal at the cafeteria, Dougherty advises packing a take-along lunch for the first day. It can be confusing to have to go through a lunch line, and kids will feel comforted by familiar food that they really like.
  
• Write a little note.
  If your kids are old enough to read, try enclosing a nice little note in the lunch bag or lunchbox. If your children are not reading yet, you can draw a picture and a heart or happy face just so that they know there's part of you there with them.

For more information about preparing kids for school, check out the following organizations or websites:

Metlife: Your Child's First Day at School
www.metlife.com/Applications/Corporate

Parent News: Getting Ready for School
npin.org/pnews/2000

US Department of Education: Back to School
www.ed.gov/Family

Child Safety Experts: A Checklist for the First Day of School
www.childsafetyexperts.com/school/first-day-of-school

KidsHealth: Going Back to School
kidshealth.org/kid/grow/school_stuff