Summer break is winding down and soon the kids will be “back to school” but the fun continues at the Clermont County Public Library. Children are invited to participate in silly stories, scavenger hunts, and more this fall!

Join the Owensville Branch on Saturday, August 14th at 2 p.m. for the Between the Lions Back to School Extravaganza featuring Lionel and Leona. Between the Lions is an award-winning PBS television series designed to encourage literacy. The "mane" characters, lion cubs Lionel and Leona, demonstrate the power of literacy. Children will “Dance in Smarty Pants”, listen to stories, and do a fun craft project. Stop by the Owensville Branch to register or call 732-6084 for more details.

The New Richmond Branch will host a Back To School Open House on Tuesday, September 21st at 6:30 p.m. Families are encouraged to attend. There will be a scavenger hunt, door prizes, and live entertainment. This is also great chance to sign up for a FREE library card, which will be very helpful this school year! Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 553-0570.

Back to school time can often be stressful for children and their families. It is important to make this transition as smooth as possible. Here are several tips from the National Association for the Education of Young Children to help children prepare this fall.

1. Be enthusiastic about the upcoming change. If you are excited and confident, your child will be too.

2. Prepare yourself. Take note of how your child reacts to separation. If possible, visit the new setting with your child. Introduce your child to the new teacher or early childhood professional in advance.

3. Start daily routines that will add to continuity. Let your child become involved with packing lunch or laying out clothes. Also, begin an earlier bedtime several weeks before.

4. Put aside extra time, particularly on the first day, for chatting and commuting together. But remember not to prolong the good-bye. If the child whines or clings, staying will only make it harder.

5. Always say good-bye to your child. Be firm, but friendly about separating. Never ridicule a child for crying. Instead, make supportive statements like, "it's hard to say good-bye."

Join the library this fall for fun events and don’t forget to visit the library’s website, www.clermont.lib.oh.us for homework help, just click on the KIDZWORLD link.