The Best Books for Kids Heading Off to School

Help your kid get ready for their first day of school with these books.

July 21, 2022

By: Amanda Mushro

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These Books Will Help Ease Your Child’s Back-to-School Nerves

The first day of school can be super exciting, but it can also be a little scary, too. If you have a little one headed off to preschool or kindergarten, here are a few books that can help them feel more confident and ready to take on their first day.

The Kissing Hand

The Kissing Hand is the perfect book to read kids who need a little inspiration and bravery. Mother Raccoon has a secret that she shares with her son, Chester Raccoon, that gives him courage on his first day of school. If it works for Chester, it will work for your little one too!

BUY IT: Amazon, $12.99

The Night Before Kindergarten

This book puts a fun kindergarten spin on The Night Before Christmas. For kids who are excited and even a little nervous, The Night Before Kindergarten will talk about how they should get ready for their big day. This book is part of a series that includes The Night Before Preschool and The Night Before First Grade, so you’ll be prepared for years to come.

BUY IT: Amazon, $3.99

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School

Your little one won’t be able to stop the giggles with this Mo Willems book. This time Pigeon wants to know why he has to go to school. He already knows everything! And what if he doesn't like it? What if the teacher doesn't like him? What if he learns too much? Read to find out!

BUY IT: Amazon, $10.14

The Day You Begin

Starting something new can be scary — especially if you feel like no one looks or sounds like you. This sweet story talks about being an individual and sharing your story with the world.

BUY IT: Amazon, $14.75

First Day Jitters

Grab this book for kids starting at a new school or who are nervous for the new school year. They will totally relate to all of Sarah’s first day concerns. Your children are bound to love the sweet surprise at the end.

BUY IT: Amazon, $7.14

We Don't Eat Our Classmates

Children who have a million questions about school will love this silly story about Penelope Rex, who wonders things like "How many teeth will my classmates have?" This is also a great book that discusses boundaries while telling a fun story.

BUY IT: Amazon, $9.58

Llama Llama Misses Mama

It’s Llama Llama’s first day of school and he’s nervous about missing Mama. However, he learns there is so much fun to be had and that he will see Mama at the end of the school day.

BUY IT: Amazon, $9.00

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