The start of a new school year is a season full of excitement—but for many preschoolers, it also comes with a mix of nervous butterflies. Whether your child is returning to a familiar classroom or stepping into a daycare environment for the very first time, it’s completely normal for them to feel a little uncertain about what’s ahead.
At Today’s Kids Childcare, we’ve seen how powerful a good book can be in helping children understand and process big emotions. Back-to-school books offer a gentle, playful way to talk about change, separation, new routines, and the many joys that school can bring.
Below are some of our very favorite first-day books that we love reading in the classroom—and highly recommend for your home bookshelf too!
📘 1. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
This heartwarming classic has comforted generations of preschoolers. In the story, Chester Raccoon is nervous about his first day of school, so his mother shares a special family secret: a kiss in the palm of his hand that he can carry with him all day.
Why we love it:
It’s a beautiful, reassuring story about separation anxiety and love that stays with you—even when apart. Many families even send their child to school with their own “kissing hand” as a reminder of home.
📗 2. Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
Little Llama starts preschool and, like many children, feels the sadness of saying goodbye to Mama. But with a little time, he finds that school can be full of friends, fun, and learning.
Why we love it:
It speaks directly to young children’s emotions in a way they can understand, using gentle rhymes and familiar routines. The message? It’s okay to miss your grownup and enjoy your day.
📙 3. First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
Everyone feels a little nervous before the first day of school—even teachers! This clever story follows Sarah Jane as she worries about starting school, only for the surprise twist at the end to reveal who she really is.
Why we love it:
It’s lighthearted and fun while showing that everyone—kids and adults alike—gets nervous about new beginnings. Plus, it’s a great way to open conversations about being brave.
📕 4. Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins
Bright, cheerful, and easy to follow, this book walks children through what they might see and do at preschool: painting, singing, snack time, and making friends.
Why we love it:
Perfect for toddlers and young preschoolers, Maisy introduces routines in a way that feels friendly and familiar. It helps children build a mental picture of what to expect during the day.
📔 5. Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly is a little mouse who worries about everything—especially starting school. But once she makes a new friend, she learns that sometimes, things aren’t as scary as they seem.
Why we love it:
This sweet story is perfect for kids with big feelings. It normalizes worry while gently encouraging bravery, connection, and trying new things.
How Reading Helps Children Adjust
Reading books about school before the first day gives children a safe space to explore their feelings. They can see characters experiencing the same emotions they are—and also see how those characters grow, adapt, and find joy in the new experience.
At Today’s Kids Childcare, we regularly read stories like these in our classrooms and use them as jumping-off points for discussions, role-play, and even creative art projects.
Keep the Conversation Going at Home
After reading, ask open-ended questions like:
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“How do you think Chester felt on his first day?”
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“What are you excited about at school?”
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“What can we do if we feel a little nervous?”
You might be surprised at what your child shares—and how much calmer they feel afterward.
Here’s to a school year full of courage, growth, and storybook magic!
If you ever want more reading suggestions, feel free to ask—we’re always happy to share our classroom favorites.
Happy back-to-school season from all of us at Today’s Kids Childcare!