Heading back to school is an exciting time for kids. However, starting something new can also make them feel anxious. Picture books can be an effective way to ease the transition and spark curiosity.
Whether your child is stepping into a classroom for the first time or returning for another year of learning, this will be a perfect time to read these 11 back to school picture books.
Children can learn what to expect at school and feel prepared through the fun stories and characters in these books.
The list includes stories from a child’s perspective and a teacher’s perspective, and even a school building’s perspective!
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Back To School Picture Books
The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! by Mo Willems
Age Group : 3-6 years
Starting the list with a great book for kids who feel nervous about starting school. Simple illustrations and very few words on each page.
The story is about a pigeon who who doesn’t like the idea of going to school for the first time.
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins
Age Group : 3-6 years
A unique and funny story about a young dinosaur learning to make friends at school. Amazing illustrations add to the charm of this beautiful story.
The book shows how unique each child in the class is and how they experience different feelings.
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
Age Group : 3-6 years
This is a sweet story about a little raccoon’s first day of school. The little raccoon doesn’t want to leave mom. But a kiss from mom can fix everything!
The book highlights themes of love, comfort, and reassurance, making it a perfect read for children facing separation anxiety.
Butterflies on the First Day of School by Annie Silvestro
Age Group : 3-6 years
This story beautifully captures the feeling of butterflies in your stomach on the first day of school.
A young girl named Rosie is nervous and at the same time excited about the first day. She soon realises that it’s not as bad as she thought.
My WILD First Day of School By Dennis Mathew
Age Group : 4-7 years
I absolutely love this book. A great back to school book about animals going to school.
The book will help kids to ease their anxieties and make them look forward to the new experience with enthusiasm and curiosity.
How to Get Your Octopus to School BY Annie Silvestro
Age Group : 4-7 years
Another great book to share with your kids before their first day of school.
It beautifully captures the challenges of guiding an octopus through a typical school morning routine.
How to Get Your Teacher Ready by Jean ReagaN
Age Group : 4-8 years
This book is about a playful guide to preparing your teacher for the school year, from a child’s perspective.
A wonderful way to get children familiar with various school events and daily routines! It’s a fun read but it also helps children ease into the school environment by highlighting common classroom experiences.
Never, Not Ever! by Beatrice Alemagna
Age Group : 4-8 years
Another picture book addresses common childhood fears about new experiences and separation from parents.
The book teaches that trying new things can lead to pleasant surprises.
School’s First Day of School By Adam Rex
Age Group : 5-6 years
This book stands out from other back to school books by offering a unique perspective. Most of the other books are written from either a student’s or teacher’s point of view. But this one is from the school’s point of view!
The book has an important message that everyone, even a building, can feel nervous about new experiences.
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
Age Group : 5-7 years
This is another perfect book for kids who are nervous to start a new class or school. This book makes it seem normal to feel nervous when starting something new.
But that’s not all. This book also surprises readers with a twist at the end!
A Letter From Your Teacher: On the First Day of School BY Shannon Olsen
Age Group : 5-8 years
This beautifully illustrated book is written from a teacher’s perspective.
The book shows the various challenges in school and the special efforts teachers make for their students.
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