August brings a bittersweet shift as the long, lazy days of summer give way to the exciting hustle of back-to-school prep. For parents, this transition is a milestone filled with the labeling of backpacks, the gathering of oversized supply lists and the mixture of tears and pride that comes with watching your child take their first steps into a brand-new classroom. To get your child excited about heading back to school, here are some books that will help them prepare for the big day!
Board Books
“Preschool Is Cool”
by Sabrina Moyle
This book follows a nervous class of animal critters as they navigate their very first day of school. Through vibrant illustrations and rhyming text, the book addresses early childhood worries like separation anxiety and making friends, reassuring toddlers that it is completely OK to not know all the answers yet.
Picture Books
“Kindergarten Gets Ready”
by Naomi Danis
A dedicated teacher named Mr. Bee and his class guinea pig transform a cluttered, dusty room into a welcoming classroom. By focusing on the care behind a teacher’s prep, this sweet story replaces first-day anxieties with excitement and comforting structure for new students.
“Mi Escuela Is My School”
A young boy takes readers on an exciting, step-by-step tour of his classroom and routine during his very first day of school. This heartwarming bilingual story naturally blends English and Spanish vocabulary to celebrate school as a safe, friendly and deeply welcoming community for new learners!
Early Elementary
“This Makes Me Anxious: First Day of School”
by Courtney Carbone
Overwhelmed by back-to-school jitters that make her chest feel as tight as her old sneakers, a young girl learns to voice her worries and navigate her fears. This comforting beginning reader offers gentle tools for emotional management, reminding children that family, teachers and friends are always ready to help them handle their big feelings.
Middle Grade
“Chess Club: The Winning Move”
by Rebecca Donnelly
Yearning for real-life opponents in her small town, chess enthusiast Halima Kasim recruits three fellow misfits to build their own team from scratch. This heartwarming, illustrated middle-grade novel explores the messy ups and downs of school social dynamics, showing readers that teamwork, confidence and connection are the ultimate keys to finding community.
Teen
“Dating and Dragons”
by Kristy Boyce
Determined to overcome her social anxieties at a brand-new high school, Quinn joins an exclusive, live-streaming Dungeons & Dragons group. The only catch is that dating among members is strictly forbidden. This witty contemporary romance explores the complex dynamics of high school hierarchies and identity, highlighting the courage it takes to handle a secret crush while remaining loyal to your closest friends.
