Momma In The Mitten

The first day of school is exciting, but for many kids (and parents!) it comes with a few butterflies in the stomach.

A new classroom, new friends, and new routines can feel overwhelming — and that’s completely normal!

One of the best ways to prepare children for this big transition is through stories.

Books can help them imagine what school will be like, introduce them to relatable characters, and reassure them that it’s okay to feel nervous.

Here are five wonderful reads that can help ease those first-day-of-school jitters.

1. First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg

A funny and surprising twist on first-day nerves, this story follows Sarah Jane as she faces her fears about starting at a new school — and the ending will leave both kids and parents smiling.

Why it helps:

Shows kids that everyone, even teachers, can feel nervous. Turns anxiety into something relatable and lighthearted.

2. The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! by Mo Willems

The beloved Pigeon is back — and this time, he’s listing all the reasons he shouldn’t have to go to school.

Why it helps:

Humor takes the edge off worries. Kids see that having questions (and even a few dramatic objections) is totally normal.

3. School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex

What if the school itself had feelings about the first day?

This sweet, imaginative book helps kids see the day from a whole new perspective.

Why it helps:

Encourages empathy and curiosity. Shows that change is new for everyone — even the school.

4. A Letter from Your Teacher: On the First Day of School by Shannon Olsen

This heartwarming picture book is written as a letter from the teacher, welcoming students into the classroom and reassuring them they belong.

Why it helps:

Offers comfort and sets a positive tone for the school year. Helps kids picture their teacher as a supportive ally.

5. How to Catch a Class Pet by Alice Walstead

A playful twist on the first week of school, where students work together to catch the elusive class pet.

Why it helps:

Encourages teamwork and problem-solving. Focuses on fun classroom adventures rather than fears.

Find These Books & More

I’ve put together a complete list of these titles — plus more amazing first day of school recommendations — in my Amazon Storefront.

📚 Click here to shop my First Day of School book list on Amazon

You’ll find classics, hidden gems, and fresh releases to help your child feel confident, excited, and ready for the big day.

Tips for Using These Books at Home

Read them together in the days leading up to school. Let your child ask questions and share how they’re feeling. Role-play scenarios. Pretend to meet a new teacher or find your desk, just like in the story. Share your own first-day story. Kids love to hear that grown-ups have been through it too.

📚 Whether your child is starting school for the very first time or just moving up a grade, these stories can help transform jitters into excitement.

After all, the first day of school is the beginning of a brand-new adventure.

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Opinions are my own.