The prong lawn aerator does work and you do add in a sand-compost mix to allow compacted areas of grass to grow and thicken out. I would rake away any thatch before aerating with the lawn aerator.

Aerating a lawn is good advice as it will help to rid stale carbon dioxide gas from the soil and and allow fresh oxygen rich air into the soil. It also encourages good root growth. Having said said, I would scarify your lawn first, that is to say remove all the dead grass, debris and moss with a wire rake.

After you have done all this, throw some sharp sand on your lawn. This will encourage root growth, help with drainage and discourage further moss growth.

Most grass seed that is sold today contains an additive to discourage birds. If the seed that you have doesn't contain this additive, (it should be listed on the packet or box), then I would get one that does include this ingredient. It does make a big difference.

Thank you for the reassurance that I'm on the right track. I appreciate your response