The first day of kindergarten for Boston Public School students is September 12, and the organization Countdown to Kindergarten has plenty of information to help kids and families make the transition a smooth one. Highlights from its website include:

Kindergarten Days Parties - Celebrations are going on in each Boston neighborhood from now through September 9th.  They are a great way to meet other students and families from your community. Check the calendar to find a Kindergarten Days Party in your neighborhood.

Countdown to Kindergarten Celebration at the Boston Children's Museum - Join Mayor Menino, Superintendent Carol Johnson, and others at the 12th annual citywide kindergarten celebration at the Boston Children's Museum on Tuesday, August 30th from 4:30 to 7:30.

Volunteer at a local Boston Public School on the first day of kindergarten.  The first day of school is exciting and fun, but sometimes scary and overwhelming for young children.  School staff welcome volunteers to help provide additional support to new students and families as they start kindergarten. To sign up, contact Sonia Gomez-Banrey at sgomezbanrey@boston.k12.ma.us.