8 Books for Preschoolers to Get Them Pumped for Their First Day
By Rachel Ward
Art, readalouds, singing, and playtime, too—there’s a lot to get excited about when it comes to preschool! But all that excitement can lead to a big case of nerves for little ones who haven’t yet embarked on their first day of school.
We know that the first day of preschool is an exciting (if not, emotional) time of transition...for everyone. Reading together not only helps first-time preschoolers get ready for this next step, it helps you prepare for the big day, too.
These 8 titles are the best books to read to preschoolers to prep them (and ease any fears) as they step out of the nest and begin their learning journey!
1. The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing
Age group: Preschool
Billy’s first day of preschool starts out a little rough, but with tons of fun activities and the generosity of a newfound friend, he sees how fun it can be. Kids will love the rhyming structure loosely based on ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas!
2. Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
Age group: Toddlers/Preschool
Llama is excited about the first day of preschool—that is, until his mama has to leave. At first, Llama’s a little scared, but after a while he starts to have fun with his classmates. Before he knows it, his mama’s back to pick him up!
3. It’s Time for Preschool! by Esme Raji Codell
Age group: Toddlers/Preschool
If you’re looking for a basic intro to the preschool experience, this is it! This book gives kids a rundown on who will be at preschool, where they’ll put their things (that first cubby is so special), and all the fun they’ll have during the day (Sand tables! Art fun! Puppet shows! Cooking experiments!).
4. When I Miss You by Cornelia Maude Spelman
Age group: Toddlers
A young guinea pig talks frankly about the big emotions (such as sadness and fear) that she experiences when her parents are away and she misses them. By doing so, she accepts her feelings while remembering that at the end of the day, they’ll have a joyful reunion. This one’s perfect for little ones who are still learning to name, understand, and express emotions.
5. My First Day at Nursery School by Becky Edwards
Age group: Preschool
When our three-year-old heroine finds herself in a new environment alone on the first day at nursery school, her constant (and loud) refrain is, “I want my mommy!” But with encouragement from her teachers, playtime with friends, and awesome activities, she’s singing, “I want to stay at nursery school!” by day’s end.
6. Preschool Day Hooray! by Linda Leopold Strauss
Age group: Toddlers/Preschool
Gooey glue, slippery slides, and “topply” blocks—this book’s focus on sensory language and details makes kids feel like they’re already living a day in the preschool life and gets them excited for the real deal.
7. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
Age group: Toddlers/Preschool
When Chester the raccoon doesn’t want to leave his mother for school, she kisses his hand and tells him that when he feels lonely, all he has to do is hold that hand to his face and he will feel her love with him all day long. Try it with your own little clinger!
8. Kindergarten Rocks! by Katie Davis
Age group: Preschool/Kindergarten
Dexter is super nervous about going to kindergarten, but he needn’t have worried. With some encouragement from his big sister and his trusty stuffed lovie, he winds up having a blast—and can’t wait for his second day!
