5 Easy-peasy steps to enroll in kindergarten

During the hustle and bustle of summer fun, don't forget to make sure your child's properly enrolled in kindergarten. Here's what you should do before her first day. 1. Provide Proof of Age School districts usually require that children be five years or older by a certain date. Show proof of age with a certified birth certificate or a baptismal certificate from your church. Your school district may also accept hospital records, an insurance policy, or a notarized statement signed by your doctor. 2. Show Proof of Residence You can show that you live within the district's boundaries by providing the school with an electric bill, telephone bill, voter registration card, rental contract, or notarized statement. Schools usually request to see two of the above items. 3. Update Your Child's Health Records Each state has specific health requirements for enrolling in school. Check with your school to see what paperwork is required. You generally need to show proof of a recent physical examination and required immunizations. 4. Fill Out the Enrollment Form Visit your little one's future school to get an enrollment form. Turn the form in on time so your school can plan out how many teachers and classrooms will be needed for the school year. You'll need to provide the following info: parents' names, address, phone number, emergency contacts, Social Security number, and language spoken at home. Contact your school if you'd like help filling out the form. 5. Get Your Meal Ticket Depending on your family's income, your child may be eligible for free and reduced lunches. Fill out an application during enrollment or at the beginning of the school year. The school will then confirm your child's eligibility.