Kindergarten is a significant milestone, a year filled with learning and growth, which makes the choice of books we introduce during this time critical. It’s our job as educators and parents to ensure our children are equipped with the right tools to navigate this new chapter of their life. And, believe it or not, a powerful tool that can make a world of difference is a carefully selected book.
Books have an incredible way of comforting, inspiring, and teaching children. A good story can spark curiosity, foster empathy, and help children understand and appreciate the world around them. This is particularly true when it comes to books about going to school. Reading stories about characters who are facing similar situations can provide children with a sense of reassurance, teach them about the structure and rhythm of a school day, and stimulate excitement about the adventure ahead.
As we approach a new school year, I have carefully curated a list of delightful and engaging books that will not only prepare your child for kindergarten but also instill a love for learning. These books celebrate the joy of discovery, the value of perseverance, the beauty of diversity, and the power of friendship, making them ideal companions for your child’s journey into the world of kindergarten.
For selected reads for youngsters, check out our Kids Books section.
Back to School Books for Kindergarten
Here are our top picks for back to school books for kindergarten:
1. School Is Cool! by Hello! by Lucky and Sabrina Moyle
This vibrant picture book prepares young readers for their first day of school with humor and encouragement. The friendly narrator cheers for school, helping alleviate worries about unfamiliar rules, making friends, or fitting in, making it an ideal read for those about to embark on their educational journey.
2. First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg & Judy Love
Sarah Jane Hartwell grapples with anxiety as she faces her new school, knowing no one. Encouragement from Mr. Hartwell and a new friendship with Mrs. Burton slowly help alleviate her fears, providing readers with a relatable story that ends on an unexpected note.
3- The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn & Ruth Harper
Chester Raccoon is anxious about starting school in the forest. Mrs. Raccoon introduces the comforting family secret of the Kissing Hand to ease Chester’s fears, offering children a symbol of enduring parental love during times of transition or separation.
4- A Letter from Your Teacher, by Shannon Olsen & Sandie Sonke
This book presents a heartwarming letter from a teacher to new students, creating an immediate bond. It reassures students of a warm and welcoming school year filled with growth and learning.
5- Our Class Is A Family by Shannon Olsen & Sandie Sonke
This story communicates a profound message of unity and acceptance. It assures children that it’s okay to make mistakes and be oneself in the classroom, which is portrayed as a safe and inclusive “family.”
6- All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold & Suzanne Kaufman
This story advocates for diversity and inclusion within a school setting. It fosters an environment where all children, regardless of their background, are celebrated, making it an ideal book to start off a new academic year.
7- The Name Jar by Yangsook
Unhei, a newcomer from Korea, finds herself in a dilemma when her classmates struggle to pronounce her name. Her journey of self-discovery leads her to embrace her unique identity, emphasizing the importance of cultural respect and understanding.
8- School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex & Christian Robinson
This book gives an innovative perspective by personifying a school that is just as nervous as the students on the first day. The narrative follows the school’s journey as it realizes it isn’t alone in its first-day nervousness.
9- It’s OK to be Different, by Sharon Purtill & Sujata Saha
Promoting diversity and kindness, this book helps children understand that differences make each person unique. It inspires kindness towards others, regardless of how they look or what they like.
10- Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
The story revolves around a young girl whose name is consistently mispronounced at school. After her mother enlightens her about the beauty and significance of names from various cultures, she returns to school, ready to educate her classmates, celebrating the beauty and magic of names.
11. Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly, a character riddled with worry about everything, finds her anxieties peaking as she faces her first day of school. However, the narrative takes a pleasant turn as she discovers that school can actually be a fun experience, lessening her worries.
12. My Weird School Special, by Dan Gutman
As summer winds down, A.J. anticipates returning to school. However, an unexpected tropical storm cuts his vacation short, leading to a stay at Andrea’s house. With everyone experiencing cabin fever, the kids head to Camp Ockatollyquay, a unique camp aimed at preparing kids for school. A.J. and his friends from Ella Mentry School ensure the summer concludes on an unforgettable note.
13. The Day You Begin, by Jacqueline Woodson
This moving book by Jacqueline Woodson, a National Book Award winner, and Rafael López, a two-time Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner, explores the courage it takes to reach out when feeling scared and alone. It encourages us to embrace our uniqueness, take the first steps in unfamiliar places, and share our stories with others.
14. The Night Before Second, by Natasha Wing
This story follows a young boy’s anticipation for his first day of second grade. After spending the summer preparing, he eagerly awaits the surprises that the new grade has in store for him. This charming tale, reminiscent of Clement C. Moore’s classic story, guides readers through the boy’s journey in the new school year.
15. How to Get Your Octopus to School, by Becky Scharnhorst
Convincing your octopus to go to school can be a challenge, especially when he would rather play games at home. Yet, with some patience and creativity, you can assure your octopus that school is a place he will love. This fun back-to-school story is perfect for anyone who has struggled with school morning routines.
16. The Smallest Spot of a Dot, by Linsey Davis
This book emphasizes that despite our unique traits and differences, 99.9% of our genes make us the same. With rhythmic verses and engaging illustrations, it celebrates our shared connection, equality, and acceptance. Ideal for children aged 4-8, this book encourages exploration of genetics, DNA, and individuality.
17. Lou’s Zoo and Winston Too, by JoAnn M. Dickinson
This sequel to ‘Who’s New At Lou’s Zoo’ follows Winston the Wise Owl as he becomes a problem solver in Lou’s neighborhood. Displaying kindness and compassion in his role, Winston helps ensure the happiness of all the zoo’s residents. The book subtly educates children about acceptance, anxiety, special friendships, and endangered species, making it a great addition to any back-to-school reading list.
18. Llama Llama Back to School, by Anna Dewdney and Reed Duncan
The end of summer is near, and Llama Llama is not ready to bid it goodbye. With days filled with fun activities and ice cream with friends, he wishes summer could last forever. His anxiety about the first day back at school gradually diminishes with a little assistance from his friends and Mama Llama. This installment of the bestselling Llama Llama series continues to delight young readers with its catchy rhymes and appealing illustrations.
19. What Should Danny Do? by Adir Levy and Ganit Levy
Join Danny, the Superhero-in-Training, in this interactive book where the readers get to decide Danny’s actions at school, leading to different endings. This sequel to the #1 Amazon Best Seller encourages decision-making skills and allows children to explore various outcomes of their choices, promoting invaluable life lessons.
20. Time for School, Little Blue Truck, by Alice Schertle
The Little Blue Truck and his friend Toad are fascinated by a bright yellow school bus they encounter. When an animal friend misses the school bus, Blue takes on the challenge of getting his friend to school on time, proving that he can be as helpful as a big bus. This story follows other adventures of Little Blue Truck, promoting themes of friendship and responsibility.
21. The Best Seat in Second Grade, by Katharine Kenah
Sam decides to take his pet hamster, George, on a class field trip to the science museum. However, trouble ensues when George escapes into the museum’s Hamster Habitat. This Level Two I Can Read book, with engaging stories and longer sentences, helps young readers develop their reading skills and encourages problem-solving strategies.
22. Pete the Cat, by James Dean and Eric Litwin
Pete the Cat navigates his way through school, discovering exciting places like the library, lunch room, and playground, all while rocking in his school shoes. Regardless of where he is, Pete keeps moving, grooving, and singing his upbeat song, spreading positivity and enthusiasm about school.
23. If You Take a Mouse to School, by Laura Numeroff
The story follows the adventures of a mouse on his first day of school, where he asks for a lunch box, sandwich, notebook, pencils, and even wants to share your backpack. This entertaining tale from the beloved series offers a fun perspective on school life, making it a charming addition to any child’s back-to-school reading list.
24. We All Belong, by Nathalie Goss and Alex Goss
In ‘We all Belong’, a diverse group of children is celebrated through a beautifully written rhyming poem that emphasizes respect for all cultures and skin colors. This picture book advocates for inclusion, appreciation of differences, and empathy towards others. It also includes an activity to help children understand and appreciate their similarities and differences.
25. Splat the Cat: Back to School, Splat! by Rob Scotton
This story follows Splat the Cat as he returns to school after summer vacation. Splat only has time to share one of his summer adventures with the class, but he’s torn between his hunt for pirate treasure or his experience swimming with sharks. The story concludes with Splat choosing the perfect tale to share. This storybook offers a humorous and relatable perspective on sharing experiences in school.
26. Turkey Goes to School, by Wendi Silvano
Turkey is eager for school to start and practices writing and math with his barnyard friends. However, they discover that animals aren’t allowed in school. Undeterred, Turkey devises a plan to prove to the students and the principal that he and his friends deserve to be part of the school. This story offers a fun perspective on determination and problem-solving.
27. Biscuit Goes to School, by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
Biscuit, the little puppy, is eager to experience everything at school, even though dogs aren’t allowed. The story follows Biscuit’s adventures in school and the surprises that ensue when a puppy is found in the classroom. As part of the My First I Can Read series, this book uses basic language, word repetition, and appealing illustrations to engage and support emerging readers.
28. This School Year Will Be the Best! by Kay Winters
On the first day of school, students are asked to share their hopes for the coming year. Their wishes range from conventional to quirky, depicted in humorous illustrations. As the day ends, there’s a shared optimism that this school year will indeed be the best. The book offers a positive outlook towards new beginnings and shared hopes and aspirations among classmates.
