Kindergarten can raise a mixture of emotions, for both parents and kids--excitement, anxiety, uncertainty, fear, relief. As you and your child embark on this big life change, it’s important to start a conversation that not only allows you both to articulate your worries, but to also put an air of excitement around this next step! Here’s a list of books that will make great reads for families preparing to start kindergarten.

 

Will I have a Friend? By Miriam Cohen

No matter how old you are, entering a space with new people causes a level of worry about making new friends. Will I Have a Friend? takes us through Jim’s first day of school, and his own worries about fitting in. In the beginning, he struggles to find his place, as “All the boys were making noise, all the girls were laughing. Where was his friend?” Will I Have a Friend? tells a familiar story of the anxiety that comes with change, but also reminds us that if you stay true to yourself, you’ll always find a friend.

 

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
Chrysanthemum has always loved her name. But, upon starting school, her unique name is met with not so pleasant responses by her classmates. In turn, Chrysanthemum’s first day of school is nothing short of a disaster. However, with the help of a teacher, Chrysanthemum remembers why she loved her name in the first place, and that being a little different can be a good thing.

Rufus Goes to School by Kim T. Griswell
All Rufus the Pig wants is to go to school and learn how to read. However, he is quickly rejected by the principal, who says pigs “track mud in the halls, turn their drawings into airplanes, and start food fights in the cafeteria.” A determined Rufus decides that he will figure out what it takes to be able to go to school. Ultimately, Rufus realizes that getting into school has nothing to do with the right supplies, but instead a willingness to learn.

I am Absolutely too Small for School by Lauren Child
This book from the Charlie and Lola series tackles first day of school jitters, and details a big brother’s attempts to help his little sister prepare for the first day. Lola is reluctant to go to school, and Charlie reminds her all the reasons why going to school is a good thing. School teaches you how to read, in case you encounter a “ever-so-angry ogre that would not go to sleep unless you read his favorite bedtime story”. I am Absolutely too Small for School captures a sweet sibling bond, and will also put a silly twist on all the reasons why school is awesome!