The end of summer is a time for corn on the cob and Popsicles. Families hurry to squeeze in a final vacation before the weather starts to change. Inevitably, families start preparing for back to school.
This transition time can prompt anxiety in a child getting ready to start school. A young child won’t know what to expect. They may wonder what their day will involve and if they will make friends. They will be bombarded with reminders that school is starting soon increasing anxiety. Books are a fantastic way to demonstrate what a school day will be like for your child. This can help address any fears they have. Consider the following best books for kids going to school.
Preschool
The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing allows preschoolers to learn what a school day will be like through simple rhyming text. This is another wonderful book in The Night Before series and will help ease preschool fears as well as allowing kids to realize it isn’t abnormal to be a little nervous when starting school.
My Preschool by Anne Rockwell will 
provide children reassurance. While reading this book parents can take the opportunity to talk about what concerns the child has about their school day so they can address any misconceptions they might have.
Kindergarten
C
ountdown to Kindergarten by Alison McGhee tells the story of a girl who is worried about starting kindergarten in a few days because she doesn’t know how to tie her shoes and she thinks she will be the only one who can’t. Many children probably have similar a fear that isn’t realistic. This book will help them realize that children starting kindergarten all come in with different skills and abilities and can all be successful.
Kindergarten Diary by Antoinette Portis provides children a view of what life in kindergarten is like through the eyes of a kindergartener. Written in the form of a diary, this book will give children things to lo
ok forward to such as playing on the monkey bars.
Although new experiences can cause anxiety they can also be exciting. By reading books with your child to prepare them for the start of school you will enable them to focus on the fun and excitement instead of the worry.