Talking Health with the Clinton County Health Department

The backpacks are tiny, the shoes still light up, and somehow your child looks both incredibly grown-up and impossibly small all at once. Sending your kid to school for the first time is a big milestone—for them and for you. It’s exciting, emotional, and maybe just a little overwhelming (okay, sometimes a lot). From practicing lunchbox skills to talking through what a school day looks like, getting ready isn’t just about supplies—it’s about building confidence. With a little preparation, a lot of reassurance, and a few deep breaths, you can help your child walk into their first day feeling safe, capable, and proud. And yes, it’s okay if you need a moment after the drop-off—you’ve both earned it. To help you navigate how to prepare your child for school, we have enlisted the help of Krissy Smith. Before becoming a home daycare provider to spend more time with her own children, Krissy spent more than 10 years teaching kindergarten at a local elementary school. She has certifications ...