21 Must Read First Day of School Books
The first day of school can be a mix of excitement and jitters for young children. Fortunately, first day of school books can help ease the transition and make the experience fun.
In this kid’s book list, you will find picture books, chapter books, and read alouds to help young readers navigate their first day of school with confidence and joy.
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Best back to school books
Kickstart the school year with engaging and comforting reads! This collection offers a mix of humor and heart, perfect for easing first-day jitters and fostering excitement about learning.
These stories help children navigate new experiences, make friends, and build confidence.
Whether for bedtime or read-aloud sessions, these books will make the transition to school smoother and more enjoyable for young readers.
A tender story about a mother raccoon comforting her child on the first day of school. This classic tale reassures children that their parents’ love is always with them, no matter where they go.
With a humorous twist, this book captures the nervousness that comes with the first day of school, revealing that even teachers get the jitters!
Beloved by children, Mo Willems' Pigeon is back and this time he's not happy about going to school. His antics will surely bring laughter and relief to first-day fears.
This unique story is told from the perspective of a school building experiencing its first day filled with children. The witty text and charming illustrations make it a standout.
Related: First day of school crown
Follow Miss Bindergarten as she prepares her classroom for her new kindergarten students. The rhyming text and colorful illustrations are perfect for preschoolers and kindergartners.
David Shannon's mischievous David faces the challenges of school rules and structure, teaching kids about the dos and don'ts of school life in a humorous way.
This heartwarming story of a little mouse named Wemberly who worries about everything, especially school, is perfect for easing anxiety.
A cute and whimsical tale of a little panda named Chu who has a big sneeze. This book is ideal for calming nerves and providing a giggle.
Related: First day of school scavenger hunt.
Explore the concept of school through the eyes of farm animals who miss their little boy while he’s at kindergarten, offering comfort and reassurance.
Join Pete the Cat as he struts through his first day of school in his new shoes. The catchy, repetitive text is great for read-aloud sessions.
Follow Clifford, the big red dog, on his first day of school, filled with playful adventures and important lessons.
Jane Yolen’s hilarious and imaginative tale about dinosaurs' antics in school is perfect for easing first-day nerves with humor.
Llama Llama’s story addresses separation anxiety and helps kids understand that their parents will always come back at the end of the school day.
Froggy’s excitement and mishaps on his first day of school are both relatable and entertaining for young children.
This lively book, written by “Weird Al” Yankovic, introduces a new teacher and emphasizes the fun and excitement of learning.
A playful tale that imagines all the fun things that can happen when a little mouse goes to school, based on the beloved series.
Rosie has butterflies in her stomach on the first day of school. This charming book uses a clever metaphor to address first-day nerves.
This humorous book about a dinosaur named Penelope who struggles with not eating her classmates is a fun way to discuss manners and making friends.
This touching story about a young girl who is hesitant to share her Korean name on the first day of school encourages embracing one’s identity.
Molly Lou Melon’s confidence and unique personality shine as she navigates her first day of school, teaching kids the importance of being themselves.
A story that shows even school principals can get carried away, reminding everyone that school should be fun and balanced.
Add these books to our first day of school worksheets for even more fun.
Last Updated on 5 September 2024 by Clare Brown