Get Ready for a New School Year with These Back to School Read Alouds
- kindlittleexplorer
- Jul 21, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 22
It's that time of year again: back-to-school season! Get your kids ready for the new school Back-to-school season is here—and that means new backpacks, fresh crayons, and a perfect excuse to cuddle up with your child and a stack of heartwarming, funny, and confidence-boosting picture books. Whether your child is starting school for the first time or just moving up a grade, these read-alouds will make the transition smoother and more exciting.
Let’s dive into why reading aloud is so powerful and discover the best books to get your kids ready for a fantastic school year.
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Why Read Books with Kids?
Reading aloud to children is an activity that has countless benefits, especially as they prepare for the first day of school. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or entering elementary school, reading aloud can be a wonderful way to ease any anxieties and set a positive tone for the school year.
Bonding Through Storytime
There’s something magical about curling up with your child and reading a book together. It’s not just about the words—it’s about the time spent, the questions asked, and the laughs shared. That simple daily ritual builds stronger emotional connections.
Academic and Emotional Benefits
Reading aloud helps children develop better vocabulary, comprehension, and listening skills. It also boosts emotional intelligence. As kids hear how characters handle problems or express feelings, they learn to navigate their own emotions better.
Easing Back-to-School Anxiety
Many kids feel nervous about the start of a new school year. Books featuring characters who face similar fears can help kids feel seen and less alone. These stories become gentle tools to open up conversations.
Best Back to School Read Aloud Books
Books About First Day Jitters
by Adam Rex
What if the school was nervous about the first day of school? This clever twist shows a building with feelings, creating a funny and relatable story. Kids will giggle—and feel understood—knowing they’re not the only ones feeling anxious.
by Erin Guendelsberger
Yellow, the school bus is all revved up... but also nervous. As he drives students for the first time, he learns that courage doesn’t mean being fearless—it means doing your job even when you're scared.
by Jacqueline Woodson
A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!
The Day You Begin tells the story of a little girl who is afraid to share what she did over the summer because all her classmates seemed to have done more exciting things over their school break. It's a story about finding the courage to connect, even when you feel different and afraid.
Funny & Imaginative Stories
by Drew Daywalt
Crayons have feelings too! Duncan’s crayons go on strike in hilarious letters expressing their frustrations. This creative and colorful tale keeps kids laughing while teaching empathy and perspective.
by Amy Husband
Michael’s excuse letters to his teacher are over-the-top and packed with imagination. Pirates, deserts, and aliens—he's done it all! Until he realizes...school might be more fun than he thought.
by Ryan T. Higgins
Penelope Rex is excited to meet her classmates… until she realizes they’re human, and she’s a dinosaur. Whoops. This silly story delivers an important message about empathy, friendship, and self-control.
Books That Build Empathy and Social Skills
by Alexis O'neill
Mean Jean is the queen of the playground—until a new girl arrives and dares to be kind. A great story for tackling bullying and teaching how kindness can flip a power dynamic.
by Angela DiTerlizzi
Just because you can’t do something now doesn’t mean you never will. This lyrical, motivational story is all about the power of “yet” and embracing mistakes as part of the journey.
by Shannon Olsen
The classroom isn’t just a place to learn—it’s a family. This book fosters a sense of community and belonging, reassuring students that they’re supported and cared for.
Encouraging Teamwork and Creativity
by Karen Kilpatrick
Pencil and Eraser don’t always agree—but they soon realize their talents complement each other. A wonderful way to introduce teamwork and compromise to young learners.
by Jennifer Jones
The chairs are fed up with stinky feet and wiggly bottoms. So…they go on strike! This funny and surprising tale teaches respect for classroom items—and may even inspire a cleaner classroom.
Teacher & Classroom-Themed Books
by Shannon Olsen
Written from the perspective of a teacher, this sweet book reassures students that their teacher is excited to meet them, ready to help them grow, and already cares deeply for them.
by Jean Reagan
Turn the tables with this humorous guide where kids prepare their teacher for the school year. It’s clever, cute, and sneakily teaches what students can expect throughout the year.
Fun Characters to Get Kids Excited
by Rob Scotton
Join Splat the Cat on his first day back at school. As Splat prepares for the day, he wonders what exciting summer adventure he should share with his classmates. Should it be the time he went searching for a pirate treasure or when he swam with sharks in the ocean?
by James Dean
In this beloved read-aloud, Pete the Cat explores his new school, from the library to the lunchroom to the playground. With its catchy rhythm and fun illustrations, this book will have your little ones dancing and singing along.
by Sabrina Moyle
School is Cool by Sabrina Moyle is an exuberant and uplifting picture book that prepares young readers for their first day of school. With a cheerful narrator guiding a class of nervous critters, this book is the perfect back-to-school read aloud to ease any anxieties and get kids excited about starting a new adventure.
Tips for Making the Most of Read Aloud Time
Create a Cozy Reading Routine
Set the mood—snuggle on the couch, bring in a few plushies, or light a reading lamp. Make reading aloud something your child looks forward to each day.
Use Character Voices and Expression
Get silly! Use deep voices, squeaky voices, or dramatic pauses. Your child will hang on every word—and maybe even want to take over the storytelling.
Connect the Story to Real Life
Ask open-ended questions: “Have you ever felt like that?” or “What would YOU do?” It builds comprehension and helps kids make meaningful connections.
Back-to-school season is the perfect time to open a book, open a conversation, and open your child’s heart to a year of learning, laughter, and growth. These back to school read alouds offer more than just entertainment—they give your child the emotional tools to face a new school year with confidence and joy. So grab a few of these titles, get cozy, and enjoy the magic of storytime!
FAQs
1. What age group are these back-to-school read alouds best for? Most of these books are ideal for ages 4–8, but even older kids will appreciate the humor, lessons, and illustrations.
2. How many back-to-school books should I read before the first day? Just a few thoughtfully chosen ones can make a big impact. Try reading one a day in the week leading up to school.
3. Can teachers use these read alouds in the classroom? Absolutely! Many of these books are designed to build classroom community, empathy, and excitement about school.
4. Are these books available as audiobooks or videos online? Some titles are available on platforms like YouTube or Audible, but we always recommend having the physical book for a more interactive experience.
5. What’s the best way to choose the right book for my child? Think about your child’s emotions—are they anxious, excited, or unsure? Pick a book that mirrors those feelings or offers a gentle perspective.
Happy Reading!
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