15 best Back-to-School Books for Children of All Ages
Our list of the best back-to-school books encompasses the array of feelings for a new school year. Nerves, anxiety, and excitement are common for children of all ages. From saying goodbye to parents to riding the bus, meeting friends, and trying new activities, school is full of big steps.
Whether your child is starting daycare, preschool, or a new grade, the transition is exciting. The first few weeks can set the tone for the school year. For this purpose, prepare your child for a great year with a few new books. Here are 15 Reading Boots favorite back-to-school books for readers of all ages.
Back-to-School Books for Ages 0-3
The Little School Bus
The Little School Bus, by Margery Cuyler. Waking up early to pick up kids and getting them safely to school is a big job. If your toddler likes cars and trucks, this book about a bus’ day is for you. Simple rhymes and bright pictures make this board book great for young readers.
Happy Little School
Happy Little School, by Ginger Swift. Discover the joy of classroom activities, new friends, and school supplies. At the same time, simple sentences introduce your child to the wonders of school in this interactive lift-the-flap book.
Bye-Bye Time (Toddler Tools)
Bye-Bye Time (Toddler Tools), by Elizabeth Verdick. Goodbyes are hard. Nevertheless, ease your child into the transition for school or child care with this board book. Simple, easy-to-remember phrases and colorful pictures make this a great book to prepare your young child for preschool.
Llama Llama Misses Mama
Llama Llama Misses Mama, by Anna Dewdney. It is time for preschool. Llama Llama is excited until it is time for Mama to leave. Show your little one what fun school and friends can be with this cute rhyming book.
Back-to-School Books for Ages 3-6
The Kissing Hand
The Kissing Hand, by Audrey Penn. Chester Raccoon does not want to start school. However, his mom reassures him with a special kiss to comfort him when he is nervous or afraid. This heartwarming book is a favorite for young readers starting a new school adventure.
Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes
Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes, by Eric Litwin. The groovy cat is back and this time he is headed to school. Your child will enjoy the rhythm and rhymes as he/she chimes in with this book.
The Pigeon HAS to Go to School
The Pigeon HAS to Go to School, by Mo Willems. For the pigeon (or child) who does not want to go to school, discover the pigeon’s reasons to stay home. With short, simple sentences and a stubborn, silly pigeon, young readers are sure to love this book.
I Am Too Absolutely Small for School
I Am Too Absolutely Small for School, by Lauren Child. Lola has plenty of concerns about school. Therefore, it is once again up to her brother Charlie and her invisible friend to reassure her. Calm those back-to-school jitters with this comical book.
The Night Before Kindergarten
The Night Before Kindergarten, by Natasha Wing. The first day of school is upon us which means new routines, supplies, and pictures. As a spin on “The Night Before Christmas”, children will enjoy discovering the joys of kindergarten in this rhythmic book.
Back-to-School Books for Ages 6-8
First Day Jitters
First Day Jitters, by Julie Danneberg. Join Sarah Jane on her journey to discover the joys of a new school, new teachers, and new friends. If your child is feeling nervous, he/she will understand Sarah Jane’s antics on her first day of school. Bright pictures and relatable text make this a great book to start a new year.
Miss Nelson Is Missing
Miss Nelson Is Missing, by Harry G. Allard Jr. Students are misbehaving again. Not until Miss Nelson is absent and a substitute is in charge do they realize the importance of respect. Prepare your child for the new school year with this entertaining book.
Check out a fun during reading activity to use with this book!
Splat the Cat: Back to School Splat
Splat the Cat: Back to School Splat, by Rob Scotton. As usual, the best part of going back to school is sharing about your summer vacation. But, how can Splat decide what to share? Your child will relate to Splat and laugh at his slightly stretched truth about the summer.
All Are Welcome
All Are Welcome, by Alexandra Penfold. Regardless of their appearances or backgrounds, everyone is welcome to play and learn. This book spreads the message of open arms and understanding that everyone is welcome at school.
This School Year Will Be the Best!
This School Year Will Be the Best!, by Kay Winters. From the familiar to the off-the-wall, a group of students share what they think will happen during the school year. Encourage your child to brainstorm their ideas and hopes for the new school year with this cute back-to-school book.
The Day You Begin
The Day You Begin, by Jacqueline Woodson. Being new or different or starting a new school can be intimidating. However, with the right tools, you can brave new situations. Help your child gain confidence to start the school year off on the right foot with this heartwarming, rhythmic book.
Start the school year off right with these back-to-school books.
Get your Reading Boots on and enjoy the journey!
