Back-to-school season has arrived at The Gardner School and we are so excited to kick off a brand new school year with your family! A lot of feelings surround the anticipation of the journey that lies ahead, and you can help ease the transition for your child with the right books. Picture books are a wonderful way for little ones to identify and process their thoughts and feelings. Here’s a look at our top ten favorite picture books that we encourage you to read with your preschooler to prepare for a wonderful school year!
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Rosie Goes to Preschool by Karen Katz
Rosie is ready to go to preschool, and she’s done everything she can to prepare. She knows where her cubby is, who her teacher is, and where to find the snack table. This book’s reassuring language and calming drawings share the excitement of starting school while helping calm any first-day butterflies that your little one may be feeling.
The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing
We’ve all been there—the night before something big is about to happen. Our thoughts are racing and can keep us awake, thinking through all the possibilities of what’s to come. This book follows Billy’s feelings and restless nights before and after school begins. It’s a great story that you can use to get your child to open up about their feelings and ease any first-day-of-school jitters. Be sure to check out these fun conversation starters to use with your child as the school year progresses!
The Pigeon HAS To Go To School by Mo Willems
We love the Pigeon series by Mo Willems and preschoolers do too! In this hilarious picture book, the Pigeon’s resistance to the idea of school provides a relatable perspective for your child and a good laugh (which always helps ease nerves)!
The 12 Days of Preschool by Jenna Lettice
Inspired by “The 12 Days of Christmas,” this delightful picture book will help prepare your little one for preschool by letting them know what to expect. You will love spotting all the fun things to find in the classroom together! This book also includes stickers— a perfect treat for the first 12 days of preschool.
Pete the Kitty’s First Day of Preschool by James Dean and Kimberly Dean
Pete the Kitty is on his way to his first day of preschool, and your can help him prepare for what’s ahead. Pete meets his teacher, sings some fun songs, and gets to paint. It turns out that preschool is really fun! Cheer Pete on as he embarks on this new journey.
School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex
It’s the first day of school, and the school itself is feeling first-day jitters, wondering if the children will like him or if they’ll be nice. After a bit of a rough start, he sees that everyone is having a great time and looking forward to coming back to learn and play.
Ming Goes to School by Dierdre Sullivan
Follow Ming through a day of adventures at her new school, meeting new friends, building sandcastles, and playing pretend. She’s fearless with almost everything, except for the big red slide. You and your child can encourage Ming together as she works up the courage she needs to take on the slide with confidence!
Books are such an amazing resource to tap into feelings, ignite curiosity, and inspire courage! If your child struggles with separation anxiety or continues to have a hard time at morning drop-off, here are a few great reads for them:
Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
Just like your little one, Llama Llama is heading to his first day of preschool! This book takes your child through the process of the first day, meeting teachers, seeing classmates, and exploring the classroom. But Llama Llama has one major concern: Will his mom return? Of course! But we know how the first-day jitters can be. This story shows how someone who misses their mama can adapt.
I Love You All Day Long by Francesca Rusackas
A reassuring picture book to serve as a reminder for your little one that you love them even when you’re not together.
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
A beautifully written and illustrated story about a mother raccoon comforting her little one with a great goodbye ritual. This book is wonderful for families dealing with separation anxiety.
We’re ready for a new school year!
As we turn the page to an exciting new school year, we want you to know that The Gardner School is here to support your family. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or school director with any questions or needs.
If you haven’t enrolled your child but have questions or would like to request a tour of The Gardner School, please contact us today!