10 Books to Build Back to School Excitement

It’s almost time to say goodbye to summer and hello to a new school year. Some of our little ones might be feeling anxious, especially if they’re beginning a new chapter. Here are 10 books that embrace the thrill (and nerves!) about heading back to school. They’ll ease concerns, make you laugh, warm your heart, and give your child insight about what to expect in the classroom.

1. Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney - A comforting introduction to preschool and how to navigate the big emotions that come with missing a parent after drop-off. It’s all so new, but that’s what can make it feel so fun, too!
   
   
2. First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg - New experiences can be scary! After all, it’s hard to know what lies ahead. This story provides a fun, energetic way to calm those first day jitters and embrace the excitement of school.
   
   
3. The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing - There’s so much to do to get ready for school—how will you ever get a good night’s rest? This sweet story shares the comfort we all find in being prepared before experiencing something unfamiliar.
   
   
4. We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins - Making new friends can be hard, especially when you’re a Tyrannosaurus Rex! This creative look at getting used to a new classroom will have you laughing out loud, as Penelope learns how to control her dino impulses around her human peers. There are important lessons for all of us in this hilarious story.
   
   
5. Pete the Cat: Too Cool for School by Kimberly and James Dean - Picking a first day of school outfit can be tough. There are just so many choices! Beloved Pete the Cat just can’t decide and tries to act on every suggestion he gets. The result is quite silly and impractical, but the experience helps him realize just what to do.

    

6. The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi - Feeling different can make a new experience seem even more overwhelming. This story is filled with wisdom about embracing the things that make you special and not changing who you are, just to “fit in.”

    

7. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn - It’s difficult to be away from the comforts of home and the affection of your parents. In this heartwarming classic, the author shares a sweet, effective solution to help keep that love close, no matter what the day might bring. Read this compassionate story about how to bridge the gap and then give it a try!
   
   
8. Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow - This story is about celebrating who you are. The more you know about your culture and your family, the more you can proudly share it with others. Knowledge is power and to understand and appreciate the uniqueness of others is magic.
   
   
9. The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes and Vanessa Brantley-Newton - Confidence is empowering! This little boy is thrilled to embrace the newness of kindergarten and the pride that comes with conquering big milestones. And his enthusiasm is infectious!
   
10. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold - This book shows the importance of celebrating diversity and inclusion in the classroom. Here, everyone is welcomed with open arms and the result is a space where all children feel loved and valued—just the way it should be.