The answers to these questions, and more, can be found in our most recent Family Guide. This summer's Ready to Learn edition is full of information about a new state law that changes the age children begin kindergarten and establishes transitional kindergartens; myths and facts about vaccinations and which ones are required and a year-by-year guide to abilities and skills a child should have to be prepared for school.

I know that most of our First 5 LA families are not in the traditional school year cycle yet, but that doesn't mean that school preparation shouldn't be an important part of their lives. The bilingual Family Guide is being distributed at libraries, WIC centers and through some of First 5 LA's grantees and partners. An online version can be found at our Ready. Set. Grow! parenting website, along with past issues.

If you want your organization to be a Family Guide distributor, please e-mail info@ReadySetGrowLA.org to request copies and join our future distribution list.

Also, in the coming weeks, First 5 LA and Best Start, along with our partners, will be at several events giving away back-to-school supplies to families in need. Some of the details of the events are still being confirmed, so be sure to check the First 5 LA Calendar for the details. However, the first event is Project Impact's 3rd Annual Back-to-School Celebration on Saturday, Aug. 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Compton Community College District, 1111 Artesia Blvd., Compton, CA 90221. Along with free school supplies, there will be entertainment, refreshments, speakers and community resource information. For more information, call 310-631-9763 and ask for Mary.

Evelyn V. Martinez

Chief Executive Officer
First 5 LA

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"Evie's Desk" is a regular feature of our weekly newsletter, "Monday Morning Report." Subscribe now or view past issues.