First day of school read aloud books is the topic of our today’s post.
As a former teacher and a current educator, the first day of school holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a day brimming with anticipation, excitement, and, of course, a touch of nervousness – for students and teachers alike.
In my experience, one of the most impactful ways to ease those first-day jitters, while setting the tone for the year ahead, is to share a captivating story. There’s something truly magical about a roomful of eager learners, hanging on every word as a new world unfolds through the rich tapestry of a well-told tale. The right book can offer comfort, spark laughter, promote empathy, and build a shared sense of community.
Related: Best Back to School Audiobooks for Kids
In this blog post, I’ve compiled a list of the very best first day of school read-aloud books, ones that I’ve personally used in my own classroom or have come to appreciate in my ongoing journey as an educator. Each of these books has the power to turn that initial day of school into a memorable experience, to instill a love of learning, and to foster a welcoming classroom environment that feels like a second home to every student.
Whether you’re a fellow teacher seeking inspiration for your first day back, a parent preparing your child for their educational journey, or an avid lover of children’s literature, I invite you to explore these delightful stories with me.
For more resources, check out our Kids Books section!
First Day of School Read Aloud Books
Here are our top picks for first say of school read aloud books:
1. School’s First Day of School, by Adam Rex
“School’s First Day of School” is a heartwarming tale that personifies a school, sharing its apprehension and jitters about the first day. As the day unfolds, the school experiences various emotions as children fill its rooms. Ultimately, the school realizes it’s not alone in experiencing first-day anxiety, creating a warm, shared experience.
2. The Top 10 Ways to Ruin the First Day of School, by Ken Derby
“The Top 10 Ways to Ruin the First Day of School” is a hilarious roller-coaster ride featuring Tony Baloney, a boy with a wild imagination and an unstoppable ambition to make it to the Late Show with David Letterman. His journey from Kansas City to New York City, filled with outrageous antics and stunts, is a perfect blend of humor, adventure, and the sheer chaos of starting school.
3. First Day Jitters, by Julie Danneberg
“First Day Jitters” is an endearing story about Sarah Jane Hartwell, a girl who’s overwhelmed by the prospect of starting a new school year. Nervous and hesitant, she gradually warms up to her class with encouragement from her teacher and Mr. Hartwell.
The book masterfully encapsulates the common anxieties children face on their first day and the warmth of embracing new beginnings.
4. It’s OK to be Different, by Sharon Purtill
“It’s OK to be Different” is a beautifully illustrated rhyming picture book that celebrates the uniqueness of each child. Whether it’s physical appearance, interests, ethnic background, abilities, or disabilities, the book emphasizes that being different is okay and should be celebrated. Its powerful message of acceptance, kindness, and celebrating diversity makes it a must-read for all children.
5. The Night Before Second Grade, by Natasha Wing
“The Night Before Second Grade” is a delightful narration of a young boy’s anticipation for his first day in second grade. Having spent his summer preparing, he is eager to discover what the new school year has in store. Echoing Clement C. Moore’s classic storytelling style, this book beautifully captures the excitement and curiosity of starting a new grade.
6. Pencils on Strike, by Jennifer Jones
“Pencils on Strike” is an engaging, rhyming book that introduces the perspective of classroom pencils. Despite being dependable and versatile, they feel undervalued and overlooked.
The tale, shared in a humorous manner, underlines the importance of respecting everyone and everything, making it a perfect read-aloud for the first day of school or any other day.
7. Dear Teacher, by Amy Husband
“Dear Teacher” is a fun-filled collection of letters from a boy named Michael to his new teacher. These imaginative letters, full of wild excuses and whimsical sketches, attempt to explain why he can’t attend school.
When he realizes all the thrilling school activities he’d miss, he rethinks his decisions. A brilliant read that showcases the power of imagination and the exciting possibilities of school.
8. How to Get Your Teacher Ready, by Jean Reagan
“How to Get Your Teacher Ready” is a witty addition to the HOW TO… series, guiding readers through a bustling school year. Told from the perspective of a class of delightful students, it shares tips on preparing teachers for various school events and milestones.
This heartwarming book uses charming role-reversal humor to celebrate the student-teacher relationship and to ease first-day jitters.
9. This School Year Will Be the Best! by Kay Winters
“This School Year Will Be the Best!” is an exciting book that captures the optimism and expectations of the first day of school.
As new classmates share their hopes for the coming school year, some are relatable while others are amusingly unique. Through exaggerated illustrations and humor, the book sparks anticipation for an extraordinary school year.
10. We Don’t Eat Our Classmates, by Ryan T. Higgins
“We Don’t Eat Our Classmates” is a hilarious tale of Penelope Rex’s first day at school. Excited to meet her classmates, Penelope finds it hard to make friends, given her inclination to find them tasty!
A surprising twist teaches her a lesson about friendship, reminding readers about the importance of respect and empathy. This award-winning book is an amusing exploration of friendship and understanding.
11.Turkey Goes to School, by Wendi Silvano
“Turkey Goes to School” follows the eager turkey who, along with his barnyard friends, cannot wait to start school. When they’re denied entry, Turkey embarks on a quest to prove that they belong in school just as much as the students.
With humor, creative costumes, and a healthy dose of “gobble gobble”, this book is a fun exploration of inclusivity and determination.
12. Chairs on Strike, by Jennifer Jones
“Chairs on Strike” is another amusing, rhyming book from Jennifer Jones that offers a unique perspective – that of the classroom chairs.
Tired of their thankless job and the occasional smelly feet, the chairs decide they’ve had enough! This book combines humor and rhyme to highlight the importance of showing kindness to all – people and objects alike.
13. A Letter From Your Teacher, by Shannon Olsen
“A Letter From Your Teacher” is a touching book designed to set a warm, welcoming tone for the new school year. Through a heartfelt letter from the teacher, students are reassured that their new classroom will be a nurturing, safe space for growth, both academically and personally, fostering a strong bond from the very first day.
14. Our Class is a Family, by Shannon Olsen
“Our Class is a Family” is a beautifully illustrated book that emphasizes the powerful community within a classroom. Beyond academics, teachers provide a safe, inclusive, and loving environment that becomes a second home for their students.
This book strengthens the sense of unity and belonging, reminding students that it’s okay to be themselves, make mistakes, and be supportive friends.
15. Curious George’s First Day of School, by H. A. Rey
“Curious George’s First Day of School” is a delightful tale about George, the special helper in Mr. Apple’s class. Despite his best intentions, George’s curiosity leads to his usual mischief and a colorful mess.
But with the help of his new friends, George and Mr. Apple manage to clean up, offering a humorous and heartwarming story about friendship, responsibility, and the fun of learning.
