redearslider.com

I'm located in Indiana. A red eared slider laid eggs in our backyard about 2.5 months ago. My kids were worried about them and I thought it would be a fun exercise to incubate them so they could learn about reptiles. They are starting to hatch now. Out of the 15 eggs we found at least 10 have started hatching. How long should I wait to release them back into the wild? Just after the yolk sack is gone, after they start eating food? Anyone with any experience with this? Thanks!

Yes, I would wait until the egg sac has been absorbed. If they are willing to eat then that's an added bonus. I would also consider letting them go as soon as they are ready so they can be acclimated to the outdoor temperatures before winter season.