Great Books for the First Day of School

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Going to school for the first time is such an exciting event in a kid’s life but it can also be a time full of anxiety and what-ifs (and not just for the kid). These are just a few of my favorite books to read about this special but sometimes scary time.

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Great Books for the First Day of School

Lily’s Purple Plastic Purse and Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes (and basically anything by Kevin Henkes)

Both of these books are about little girls who have to deal with some of the not so fun parts of school. Chrysanthemum has to learn to be true to herself even when people tease her about her name. Lilly has to learn how to follow the rules in her class, which can be especially hard for kids who have never been in a school setting.

Berenstain Bears Go to School by Stan & Jan Berenstain

Okay so they don’t take naps in Kindergarten anymore Sister Bear, but aside from being slightly dated this is such a great book for getting kids excited to go to school. The fun illustrations and details help the kids imagine what they will be doing all day.

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

Chances are your child’s pre-k or kindergarten teacher will read this to the kids on the first day of school but it never hurts to have your own copy. Chester Raccoon gets a special gift from his mama to help him know that she will always be with him all day at school. Both of my daughters really related to this book and it helped them through more than one day when they didn’t want to leave me.

Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell

Molly Lou Melon looks and sounds different from the other kids at her new school. Her grandmother gives her valuable advice on how to be true to herself. This is such a sweet book for a kid who worries about standing out.

Originally published August 18, 2015