Tots who are just starting preschool this fall might have some nerves or even questions about starting school. But a quick trip to the local library or book store can help them gain some clarity and get excited about the first day of preschool.
“Books are the best tool in a parent’s tool box when it comes to introducing children to new topics or easing their fears,” explains Kathleen Alberga, information services librarian in the youth department at Novi Public Library. “Children relate to the characters and events taking place in the story and parents can use books as a springboard for discussion.”
Alberga suggests the following first-day-of-school books for preschoolers who are gearing up for the big day.
Three in particular – I’m Not Ready!, First Day Jitters and I Don’t Want to Go to School – “are great for easing anxiety about starting school,” she says, while Pete the Cat: Rocking in my School Shoes and Monsters Love School are good choices “for a positive spin demonstrating all of the fun things you get to do in school.”
I’m Not Ready! By Jonathan Allen
It’s time for Baby Owl to leave the nest for the very first day of preschool – but Baby Owl is just not ready to go. Will his mama be able to convince him to go? Find the board book version on Amazon for about $7.
Monsters Love School by Mike Austin
Summer has come to a close, and now all the little monsters are heading to Monster School. See how much fun they have when they go to class for the very first time. Boasts colorful illustrations. Buy it in hardcover on Amazon for about $12.
I Don’t Want to Go to School by Stephanie Blake
Simon the “Super Rabbit” definitely does not want to go to school. He’s just a little too scared! So when his parents announce that the first day of school is the very next day, he protests “no way!” But after his first day of fun, he doesn’t want to come home! Amazon’s got this one in paperback for about $5.
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
The first day of school can be really scary – especially at a brand new school. That’s how Sarah Jane Hartwell feels. But once she gets to school, she makes a new friend named Mrs. Burton, who eases those first day nerves. The paperback version runs $5 on Amazon.
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly is a bit of a worrywart about everything, and she’s definitely worried about her upcoming first day of school. But when she finally gets there, she meets her match: another worrier. Soon, the book’s description outlines, “Wemberly realizes that school is too much fun to waste time worrying!” Purchase this read on Amazon for $6.
Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes by Eric Litwin
Cool cat Pete the Cat is ready for class because he’s got a sweet new pair of kicks for back-to-school. Pick up this book for a great upbeat story that will help your little one realize school is exciting and fun. Amazon has it for about $12.
If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Joffe Numeroff
This author is the brain behind If You Give a Moose a Muffin, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie and other fun animal-centric tales. Read this one, If You Take a Mouse to School, to help your kid find some levity in going to preschool. The hardcover version is about $13 on Amazon.
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
“The Kissing Hand offers parents a simple solution to ease separation anxiety,” explains Alberga. In it, she explains, the mom raccoon “places a kiss” in little Chester’s hand. “When he feels lonely, he is to press his hand to his cheek and feel his mama’s love.”
My Preschool by Anne Rockwell
In this book, explore a day-in-the-life of a preschool boy at school, from snack time to play time. My Preschool will give kids an idea of what to expect and why preschool is actually a great time. Snag it on Amazon for about $13.
Mouse’s First Day of School by Lauren Thompson
When mouse hides inside of a backpack, he ends up at school, where he learns so many new things. Mouse even makes some new friends! This book is labeled, “a book about first experiences.” Find it on Amazon as a hardcover book for about $14, a board book for $6 and less for paperback.
Does your child have a particular favorite book that helped him or her adjust to starting preschool? Comment below and share!
