We won’t say “back to school” too loudly just yet. But if you’re the type who likes to ease into planning or just wants to feel ahead of the game, we’ve rounded up some amazing books to help you start the year with purpose, connection, and maybe even a little fun.
Titles
When a Dragon Goes to School
Interest Level: Preschool – Grade 1
When a dragon goes to school, will she throw crayons and refuse to share the toys? Why, no! Dragons don’t do that! While behaving well at school isn’t always easy, this dragon makes it fun.
On the Way to School
Interest Level: Preschool – Grade 2
Every day, children all over the world are traveling to school—by bus, by canoe, through valleys, over mountains and snow. How do you get to school? Explore the joys and challenges of traveling to school around the globe.
I Don’t Want to Go to School!
From the Series Big Little Talks
Interest Level: Preschool – Grade 3
Going to school can be a really big deal to a little kid. This sensitive book will help kid and parents talk about this big step and transition to being apart during the day—and maybe even have fun at school!
Too Shy to Say Hi
Interest Level: Kindergarten – Grade 3
Making friends can be tough, but this rhyming picture book will help navigate difficulties of shyness and social anxiety. Follow along as Shelli takes brave steps toward breaking out of her shell.
Dino-School
From the Series Dino-World
Welcome the school year dino-style! Dino-kids have fun all through the year, from the fall fling and the spelling bee to the 100th day of school and track-and-field day!
Sam’s Supersecret Survival Guide to Assembling an Army of Cats, Playground Games, and Surviving School
From the Series From the Series Supersecret Survival Guides
Interest Level: Grade 1 – Grade 3
It’s time for Sam to go to school! From having an army of cats to telling the difference between fake and real rumors, Sam knows how to have a perfect day at school.
Series
Kid Confident: Middle Grade Shelf Help
Interest Level: Grade 6 – Grade 9
These books skillfully guide middle schoolers through those tricky years between elementary and high school, stealthily offering life lessons and evidence-based coping skills while authentically capturing the middle school experience.
Explore More Back to School Resources
If you’re in full prep mode, don’t stop here! Head to our website for even more back-to-school book lists, classroom resources, and fresh new reads.