The first day of preschool is coming up! Starting preschool is a big adventure for little ones and their families, and the beginning of the year can be both nerve-wracking and exciting. Here are five books that feature well-loved characters, fun-filled story lines, and helpful hints that can help ease any first-day jitters. Reading these engaging stories will not only spark your child’s imagination but also create a comforting routine that makes heading to preschool something to look forward to. So snuggle up and let these books be your guide to a more confident and enthusiastic start to the school year.

The Pigeon Has to go to School! written and illustrated by Mo Willems

If you’re looking for a delightful way to ease preschool nerves, The Pigeon Has to Go to School! by Mo Willems is a fantastic choice. This humorous book features the beloved Pigeon, who is anxious about his first day of school. Through his comical worries and imaginative antics, children will find reassurance and laughter, discovering that even the Pigeon feels a little unsure sometimes. Sharing this story can help little ones understand that their feelings are perfectly normal and that school is a place full of fun and exciting possibilities.

If You Take a Mouse to School written by Laura Numeroff and illustrated by Felicia Bond

For a whimsical and heartwarming read that will bring smiles and ease first-day jitters, If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Numeroff is an excellent choice. This story follows a little mouse as he embarks on a series of humorous adventures that start with a simple request to go to school. Through his playful escapades, children will see that school is full of fun and unexpected surprises. This charming book not only entertains but also gently reassures little ones that the school experience can be exciting and enjoyable.

Pete the Cat, Rocking in My School Shoes story by Eric Litwin, created and illustrated by James Dean

For a fun and upbeat way to get excited about starting school, Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes by James Dean and Eric Litwin is a perfect pick. In this groovy tale, Pete the Cat shows off his cool school shoes while navigating his first day at school with his signature calm and confidence. As Pete struts through various school activities, he demonstrates how to embrace new experiences with a positive attitude and a touch of rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Reading this book together can help kids feel more at ease about their own school adventures, showing them that starting school can be both fun and exciting.

Daniel Goes to School based on the screenplay by Angela Santomero

For a heartwarming and reassuring read that beautifully captures the excitement and curiosity of starting school, Daniel Goes to School by Angela Santomero is a wonderful choice. This story follows Daniel Tiger as he experiences his very first day at school, sharing his feelings of excitement and a bit of nervousness. Through Daniel’s adventures and his friendly interactions with his classmates, children will see that school is a place where they can learn, make friends, and have fun. Reading this book together can help ease any anxieties about the new school year and make the transition smoother by showing that it’s perfectly normal to feel a mix of emotions. You can also find the Daniel Tiger TV episode by the same name on YouTube, along with the song “Grown-Ups Come Back”.

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney

For a gentle and comforting read that addresses the emotions of starting school, Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney is an excellent choice. This touching story follows little Llama Llama as he faces the challenge of being away from his mama for the first time while starting preschool. Through Llama Llama’s heartfelt experience and eventual joy in discovering the fun of school, children will find reassurance that it’s okay to miss their parents but that they can still have a wonderful time and make new friends. Reading this sweet book together can help ease any separation anxiety and make the transition to school a more positive and comforting experience.

As you prepare for this exciting new chapter of starting preschool, these charming books offer a wonderful way to ease nerves and spark enthusiasm. Each story, from the playful antics of The Pigeon to the reassuring adventures of Llama Llama, provides valuable lessons about the joys and challenges of school. By sharing these delightful reads with your little ones, you’ll not only create special moments together but also help them embrace the new school year with confidence and excitement. So cozy up with these books and get ready to start the school year with a smile and a heart full of anticipation.