Marbles Kids Museum is proud to announce the 2012 Kick-off to Kindergarten community event that celebrates the transition to Kindergarten for children and families. On Saturday, Aug. 18, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., rising Kindergarten students and their families will enjoy free admission to partake in play-based activities that will provide them with a fun way to learn school routines, materials, language and the expectations of Kindergarten.

Wake County Public Schools Superintendent Tony Tata, WRAL-TV anchor Kelsey Carlson, Wake County Principal of Bugg Elementary Michael Armstrong and local Kindergarten teachers will also be present to lead the rising Kindergarten students in a ‘live’ Kindergarten experience. Kids will be able to participate in other play oriented activities such as, Circle Time exercises, Celebrity Storytellers and UNC-TV Character Appearances.

In addition, Marbles Kids Museum has been awarded a major grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services for a new program called “Ready, Set, School,” putting Marbles on the map as a nationally-recognized leader in providing play-based learning experiences for children. This generous grant will fund a new simulated classroom exhibit, play-based school-like programming and museum events that help children develop skills for success in learning.

“Starting Kindergarten is a big transition for children and families,” said Exhibit and Program Developer at Marbles Kids Museum, Hardin Engelhardt. “While entering into the world of elementary school may be nerve-racking, it opens the door to new opportunities of learning, independence, growth and friendships. With help from Marbles Kids Museum, children can implement the power of play to overcome these fears.”

With any change, kids and parents may feel some anxiety along with their excitement. Here are some suggestions provided by Hardin Engelhard for easing the transition for the whole family:

1. Familiarize yourself with your new school.

2. Establish and practice new morning and evening routine.

3. Create a place for all of the things that come and go from school each day so they’re easy to find and manage.

4. Read books together about Kindergarten. Here are a few to check out:

5. Make and read your own book about going to Kindergarten starring your child! Include the routines you’ll follow at home and the events of the school day.

6. Play and explore together! Having a broad range of experiences and conversations encourages kids to be curious and builds their background knowledge. Experiences don’t need to be complicated, time-consuming or expensive to be rich opportunities for learning. Cooking together, taking walks, experimenting with bubbles and playing games all provide possibilities for fun, conversation and learning new things.

For more information on Marbles Kids Museums Kick-off to Kindergarten event or the major grant awarded from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, please visit their website at www.marbleskidsmuseum.org or call 919-834-3516.

In addition, below is the full list of activities that children and families may choose to take part in at Kick-off to Kindergarten.