Growing a Reader: Kids' Books, Tips and More

Starting school was fun when I was in elementary school – it meant we got shiny new shoes, bags, markers and clothes. When I was in elementary school, I would organize all the things I needed before school on my table so I would be prepared on the first day of school. My mother would also take us to the library and read me stories about starting school. This was a great way to help remember all the exciting activities we would be doing school.

Reading children stories about starting school gives you an opportunity to talk to your child about any questions and fears they may have, and prepare them for going back to school. Some children have anxiety over starting school, and this anxiety is often a result of not knowing what to expect. When children hear stories of other children who are also starting school, it can help ease their fears, let them know what to anticipate and reassure them that school is a fun place to be.

This week, why not spend some time reading books about starting school? Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Spot goes to school by Eric Hill

This is a very simple book that follows Spot’s first day of school. With bright, bold colour and pop-up flaps, this is perfect for young children who enjoy tactile books.

Lenny goes to nursery school by Ken Wilson-Max

Part of the nervousness around going to daycare and school is not knowing what to expect. In this brightly illustrated book, little Lenny is also nervous when he starts nursery school, but slowly learns new things and makes friends. When it’s time to leave, Lenny can’t wait to come back.

Franklin goes to school by Paulette Bourgeois

Starting school can be filled with excitement and fear – even if you are a turtle! This is a great story that explores the different emotions children may feel when they are starting school.

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

I always knew the teacher was going to call my name next when the teacher paused before saying my name. I had a long last name and my first name wasn’t a common one in elementary school. That’s probably why I loved this book so much. Chrysanthemum loves her name, until some kids at school make fun of it. Luckily, her teacher helps everyone understand that some people have long names and that they are also beautiful names.

  I spy school days: a book of picture riddles by Jean Marzollo

If your child enjoys participatory books, then they'll enjoy this book filled with hidden items to find from a school setting. When you find objects together, you can have a conversation about different things related to school.

Not this bear by Alyssa Satin Capucilli

Part of the nervousness around starting school is the anxiety of not being with your paren'ts. In this book, bear starts off wanting to stay home with mama bear, but throughout the day, even though he feels like he won’t enjoy the different activities begins enjoying school.

My Teacher by James Ransome

Children often worry whether their teacher will be nice. This reassuring story helps children realize that teachers enjoy what they do.

Visit your local library for more books about starting school. September is also a good time to get your child a library card if they don't already have one. Owning a library card and signing out materials on their card is exciting for children.

Also, if you want to talk to your child about internet safety, bullying or other issues but don’t know how to, check out the books and resources in our paren'ting collection. Most library branches have a paren'ting section that has great resources on a variety of topics, including difficult and sensitive topics.

We wish your child a happy first day of school!