Hey there, awesome parents! 📚✏️ Is it just me, or does summer fly by a little faster each year? With back-to-school season already here, it's time to get our little ones ready for their big adventure. Whether your kiddo is a preschool newbie or an elementary school pro, my 15 favorite back-to-school books are guaranteed to get them pumped (or at least a little less nervous) about the year ahead! One of my favorite back-to-school family traditions is New Year, New Book - and these picks are all absolutely perfect for it!Â
Some of these books I read to my own students when I was an elementary school teacher, and some books I've discovered as a parent. Let me know which ones are your favorite or if you have any I should check out!Â
Why Read Back-to-School Books?
Before we dive into my list of favorite books, let's chat about why these stories are total game-changers:
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They help kiddos process those big first-day feelings
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Books give kids a sneak peek into what school's all about
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Reading together is a great way to spark conversations about school
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Let's be real – it's the perfect excuse for extra cuddle time!
Top Back-to-School Book Picks for Preschoolers
1. "The Kissing Hand" by Audrey Penn
Get ready for all the feels! This heartwarming story is like a warm hug in book form. It's perfect for little ones who need an extra boost of courage for their first school adventure. Pro tip: Have tissues handy – it might make you a bit misty-eyed!
2. "Llama Llama Misses Mama" by Anna Dewdney
This one is all about learning to have fun at school while missing mom. Spoiler alert: Everything turns out llama-mazing! This book is perfect for kiddos who might be feeling a little clingy.
3. "The Pigeon Has to Go to School!" by Mo Willems
Prepare for giggles as Pigeon comes up with the most outrageous excuses to wiggle out of school. It's a great way to lighten the mood if your little one is feeling anxious about starting school.
4. "Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes" by James Dean
This book is perfect for teaching kids to roll with the punches and stay cool under pressure.
5. "Mouse's First Day of School" by Lauren Thompson
This book is perfect for curious little minds who want to know what school is all about. Spoiler: It's pretty awesome! Follow Mouse as he discovers all the fun activities waiting at school.
Top Back-to-School Books for Kindergarteners and Above
6. "First Day Jitters" by Julie Danneberg
This book has a hilarious twist about who's nervous for the first day of school! It's a perfect giggle-starter for those back-to-school jitters and shows that even grown-ups get nervous sometimes!
7. "The Day You Begin" by Jacqueline Woodson
This book is so gorgeous, and it's all about finding your place when you feel different. It's like a pep talk from your coolest friend, reminding you that what makes you unique is what makes you awesome! Perfect for boosting confidence before the first day.
8. "School's First Day of School" by Adam Rex
This book flips the script on first-day jitters. It's a fun way to see school from a whole new angle and might just make your child feel a bit better about their own nerves.
9. "The Name Jar" by Yangsook Choi
This book celebrates being true to yourself and your culture. It's a great conversation starter about what makes us special and how to embrace our unique identities at school.
10. "Chrysanthemum" by Kevin Henkes
This sweet story is all about loving yourself, flower name and all! It's a fantastic book for talking about self-esteem and dealing with teasing.
More Awesome Reads to Kickstart the School Year
11. "Wow! School!" by Robert Neubecker
This book is so colorful and vibrant; your little one will be excited about every corner of their new school. Warning: May cause excessive "wow"-ing and school supply shopping requests!
12. "Miss Nelson Is Missing!" by Harry Allard
This story always had my students laughing and maybe, just maybe, appreciating their own teachers a bit more. It's a fun way to talk about classroom behavior expectations.
13. "Stick and Stone: Best Friends Forever!" by Beth Ferry
Friendship goals alert! Stick and Stone is the perfect read for anyone nervous about making new school buddies. Plus, it might inspire some pretty adorable playground games!
14. "The Invisible Boy" by Trudy Ludwig
This story is all about the power of kindness and how small acts can make a big difference. Warning: May inspire random acts of kindness and a sudden increase in playground inclusivity!
15. "Ada Twist, Scientist" by Andrea Beaty
We love this one! This rhyming adventure celebrates curiosity and might just inspire your kid to turn your kitchen into a lab! Perfect for getting kids excited about learning and exploring at school.
Wrapping Up
There you have it: 15 awesome back-to-school books to get your kiddos excited (or at least less nervous) about the year ahead. Remember, every child is different, so pick the books that resonate best with your little learner. And hey, why not make reading these a new back-to-school tradition?
What are your family's favorite back-to-school books? Drop your recommendations in the comments – I'm always on the hunt for new reads!
Want more back-to-school prep ideas?
Check out my post on 10 Heartwarming Back-to-School Traditions to Start with Your Kids. From special breakfasts to time capsules, these ideas will make the transition back to school a breeze - plus Free Printables are included!
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