Spring has arrived and with it the usual suspects: flowers, another hour of daylight, and school acceptance letters.

We asked Jamie Bakal of educational consulting firm L.A. School Mates for tips on tackling the most important decision you’ll make this season.

If you got wait-listed at your first choice …
It’s not over yet. Write a letter re-expressing your love of the school and why you think its program is a match for your family. Emphasize your willingness to commit to the institution long term.

If you have a child with a summer birthday …
You decided not to hold her back a year, and then you didn’t get in. Don’t panic. The school of your dreams will still be there next year and will be more likely to accept your tot after a year of pre-K.

If you don’t even know where to start …
Try to cut out all the noise and chatter and make this process about your family. It’s irrelevant where your best friend is sending her child or what you heard was the “best school.” It’s about finding an environment in which your child will thrive.

If you plan to apply for fall 2012 …
Get started now. Begin researching options so you aren’t navigating the school maze at the last minute.

After all, knowledge is power.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, go to laschoolmates.com, $350 per hour.

MULTITASK
Weego Baby and Stroller Strides Event
What: Walk, talk, shop, and save with a free class and sale.
Why: Good times and goodie bags when you R.S.V.P. to contact@weegobaby.com.
When: Fri., 9:30 a.m.-noon.
Where: Weego Baby, 2447 Main St., b/t Ocean Park Blvd. & Hollister Ave., Santa Monica (310-452-7999). 

RIDE
Magical Magnolia Bicycle Tour
What: Families participate in helmet-decorating contests, get free tune-ups, learn road safety tips, and then head out on a cycling adventure through the neighborhood.
Why: All tykes like bikes.
When: Sat., 3-7 p.m.
Where: Magnolia Park. Register at N. California St., at Chandler Bwy., Burbank (818-238-5180). Admission is free.

GOOF OFF
April Fools’ Celebration Concert
What: Get silly at a free show by family rockers Ellen and Matt.
Why: Let them sing, dance, and act a fool.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.
Where: Dragonfly DuLou, 2066 Hillhurst Ave., b/t Ambrose Ave. & Price St. (323-665-8448).

Photo: Image Source / Getty Images