Heading back to school is a big step for preschoolers—full of new routines, new friends, and sometimes a few jitters! One of the best ways to ease the transition is by reading picture books that celebrate school in a fun, relatable way.
Whether you’re a parent, homeschooler, or preschool teacher, these back to school books will help little learners get excited about what’s ahead. Bonus: they’re perfect for circle time, bedtime, calming first-day nerves, or building a school-themed reading nook in your home or classroom!
Here are 10 must-read picture books for the start of school:
1. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
A heartwarming classic about separation anxiety, this story helps children feel secure knowing love follows them wherever they go.
2. Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
With playful rhymes and sweet illustrations, Llama Llama learns that school is a fun place even when he misses his mama.
3. Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes by Eric Litwin
Groovy and upbeat, this story helps preschoolers explore school routines with Pete’s confident attitude and catchy songs.
4. Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins
A simple, colorful introduction to preschool routines—great for visual learners who love bright, bold illustrations.
5. Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Perfect for little worriers, Wemberly’s story shows that it’s okay to be nervous—and that school might be more fun than she thought!
6. First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
A fun twist that even grown-ups get nervous—great for reminding kids they’re not alone in their feelings.
7. Preschool, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg
A collection of fun poems that cover everything from circle time to cleanup—great for getting kids ready for the preschool experience.
8. Clifford’s First School Day by Norman Bridwell
Kids love Clifford! This sweet, simple book eases fears with familiar characters and a playful storyline.
9. Chu’s First Day of School by Neil Gaiman
Chu the panda is nervous about school—but ends up having a big, surprising day! Great for encouraging preschoolers to find their voice.
10. Daniel Goes to School (Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood)
This popular story uses song and routine to help kids understand and feel comfortable with school transitions.
Printable Bonus: Back to School Reading Log for Preschoolers
Pair these books with a fun, free printable reading log designed just for preschoolers! Kids can color in a book each time they read one of these titles (or any book!) to track their back-to-school reading and build healthy reading habits early.
[Click here to grab the free reading log printable]
Why Picture Books Matter During Back to School Season
Reading together builds connection and calms those first-day butterflies. These stories not only introduce school routines but also encourage empathy, independence, imagination, and excitement about learning. Preschoolers thrive on repetition and rhythm, and these stories provide both with lovable characters and gentle messages.
You can also build a mini back-to-school unit by pairing a book with:
- A themed coloring page
- Letter tracing activity based on a character’s name
- Circle time discussion prompts
- Simple crafts or puppets to retell the story
Check out the Back to School Printable Pack in my shop for easy-to-use activities that complement these picture books beautifully!
Final Thoughts
The transition to school can be a big deal for little ones, but with the right stories, it becomes an adventure. These preschool picture books are the perfect way to ease into the new year with fun, warmth, and lots of learning! Build excitement, spark curiosity, and create special memories through every page you read.
Which book is your favorite for the first day of preschool? Let me know in the comments!
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