As the first day of school approaches, there’s a mix of excitement and nerves in the air, especially for our youngest learners. The start of school is a big milestone and can be a bit daunting for little ones. But don’t worry—there’s a fun and heartwarming way to help them ease into their new routines: books!
Whether your child is stepping into a classroom for the first time or transitioning to a new grade, stories can be a fantastic way to prepare them for what’s ahead. Here’s a list of delightful books that can make that first day a little less intimidating and a lot more exciting. So, grab a comfy spot, snuggle up, and get ready to turn the pages of these back-to-school treasures!
First Day of School Books for For Preschoolers
1. "The Kissing Hand" by Audrey Penn
This classic story is a beautiful way to ease separation anxiety. Chester the raccoon is nervous about starting school, but his mother gives him a magical kiss to carry with him, reminding him of her love even when they’re apart. It’s a reassuring read that helps little ones feel secure and loved.
2. "First Day Jitters" by Julie Danneberg
Although this book is about a teacher feeling nervous, it’s a great way to show preschoolers that everyone, even grown-ups, can feel a little nervous about new beginnings. It’s a fun way to address first-day nerves and show that it’s all part of the adventure.
3. "Maisy Goes to Preschool" by Lucy Cousins
Maisy the Mouse’s adventures at preschool introduce children to the concept of school in a fun and engaging way. This book covers the daily routine and activities of preschool, helping children feel more familiar with what to expect on their first day
4. "The Night Before Preschool" by Natasha Wing
It’s the night before preschool for Billy, and he’s super nervous about going to school the next day. Luckily, he has a great day and learns just how much fun preschool can be!
5. "Tyrannosaurus Wrecks" by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
This book features a dinosaur who’s starting school and, unsurprisingly, causes a bit of chaos. With its playful illustrations and clever rhymes, it captures the mix of excitement and mischief that comes with new experiences. It’s a great way to show kids that it’s okay to be a little nervous and that school can be a blast—even if you’re a dinosaur! ;)
6. "Pete the Cat's First Day of Preschool" by James Dean and Kimberly Dean
Pete the Cat is as cool and calm as ever, and his laid-back attitude helps make the first day feel fun and exciting. With its catchy rhymes and vibrant illustrations, this book shows kids that starting preschool is a great adventure full of new friends and fun activities. It’s a perfect way to build excitement and confidence for their own first day!
First Day of School Books for For Kindergarteners
1. "Kindergarten, Here I Come!" by D.J. Steinberg
A charming book that introduces young readers to the various experiences they’ll have in kindergarten, with each experience highlighted in its own separate poem. It’s a wonderful gift for pre-K students as they prepare to move on to kindergarten, helping them look forward to their new adventure.
2. "Adventure Annie Goes to Kindergarten" by Toni Buzzeo
This is the perfect book for kids who are excited about starting school and have a big personality! Annie’s enthusiasm leads to some funny mishaps, like painting the hamster cage, but she eventually helps solve a milk mystery and becomes the Gold Star Deputy. It’s a fun story that captures the thrill of beginning kindergarten and all the adventures that come with it!
3. "On the First Day of Kindergarten" by Tish Rabe
Here is a fun spin-off of the classic Christmas song, The 12 Days of Christmas. The story counts 12 exciting firsts in kindergarten, and it repeats just like the song.
4. "The Night Before Kindergarten" by Natasha Wing
Follow kids as they prepare for their first day of kindergarten—packing their supplies, taking photos, and saying goodbye to Mom and Dad. While the characters may feel a bit nervous at first, they quickly discover how much fun kindergarten can be!
5. "The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst
Twins Liza and Jeremy wake up to a noisy rainstorm and wish they could be with their mom. She comforts them by explaining that they’re always connected through an invisible string, no matter the distance—whether they’re at the bottom of the ocean, floating in space, or just at school.
6. Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate
Miss Bindergarten and her class of 26 students each prepare in their unique ways for the first day of school. The book charmingly illustrates how both the teacher and her young students eagerly anticipate their new adventure, emphasizing the fun and importance of getting ready for kindergarten.
As your little one embarks on their first day of school, remember that a great start can set the tone for a positive and successful year. These books offer not just stories, but valuable lessons and comforting messages that can help ease any anxieties and build excitement. By sharing these tales with your child, you're giving them a toolkit of confidence, curiosity, and resilience. Embrace this milestone with enthusiasm and reassurance, knowing that with the right stories and a supportive environment, your child is well-prepared to face their new adventure with a smile. Here's to a fantastic first day and a wonderful school year ahead!
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