The First Day of School

For some children, school can’t come early enough. They’ve been staring at those big yellow busses in anticipation… new friends, new faces and new fun! Others, however, need a little coaxing on that first day. Even those who’ve been through preschool and daycare are not always ready to jump into kindergarten.

The first day can be rough. One way to prepare for the new experience is to read a few books together, so you and your child know what to expect. Here are some ideas for the new student in your life:

Jake Starts School by Michael Wright
Told in rhyme with bright colors, Jake Starts School is a story about overcoming anxiety. Jake simply won’t let go on the first day; he clutches his parents’ legs so hard that they must stay at school with him. By the end of the day, Jake is able to stand on his own, much to everyone’s (comic) relief.

Butterflies in My Stomach and Other School Hazards by Serge Bloch
Our narrator is only a little nervous about school. Everyone is supportive, but not very clear in what they are saying! He’s afraid of missing the bus and being “in a pickle” and then needs to “come out of his shell”. The illustrations of each idiom keep the humor level up as our narrator enjoys a first day at school.




It’s My School by Sally Grindley
Here’s a twist on the first day: Alice is ready on her first day, but her big brother Tom is really angry that he has to share his school with his little sister. By the end of the first day, everyone is a little happier to be together.






Wonder Pets! Off to School! by Sascha Paladino and Michael Scanlon
This sweet story of a fish being helped by the popular characters is a pleaser for the TV show’s fans. Even cute critters are not immune to first-day jitters!








Ten Rules You Must Absolutely Not Break If You Want to Survive the School Bus by John Grandits and Michael Allen Austin
Kyle is more nervous about the school bus than about the school day. His brother gives him a list of rules to follow to keep him safe… but are they such a good idea? Kyle comes up with an eleventh rule which might serve him better. Detailed art makes this book stand out.






One last suggestion: make sure you have a fresh box of tissues handy for Mommy and Daddy. Even if the new student is ready, the parents may not be!

- Sharon G.