Make sure it's not all sand. If it is, you need some top soil added to your yard. Although you can practically grow grass in any soil, the sand will cause poor drainage and in certain areas of the country where there is always wind, the soil will dry fast in the sun, taking moisture away from your lawn. After you have decided on whether you need top soil or not, apply lime to the top soil. Use a broadcast spreader to apply.
Lime sweetens up the soil.
The next step is to decide if your yard is shaded, sunny, partially shaded, etc. Some grass seeds will burn in direct sun, they use up their food supply too fast in the heat and that is the reason your lawn goes dormant. Check with the Seed package to see what seed is best for your area. Kentucky Bluegrass varieties require much more upkeep than other seeds. Mowing, fertilizing, and watering are the steps you will be performing more than usual with Kentucky Bluegrass.