The back-to-school season is an exciting milestone for young children, but it can also bring a mix of emotions. Whether your child is starting child care, moving into a new classroom, or beginning kindergarten, stories can help make these transitions feel a little less intimidating. Reading together creates opportunities to talk about new routines, answer questions, and build confidence before the first day arrives.
At Kids & Company, we believe books are a wonderful way to help children prepare for new experiences. Our curriculum team has curated a selection of stories that celebrate the excitement of learning, making new friends, sharing with others, and discovering that school is a place where children can grow, explore, and have fun.
1. Time for School, Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle
Time for School, Little Blue Truck follows everyone’s favourite blue pickup truck as he eagerly watches a school bus full of animal friends heading off to school. When one little friend misses the bus, Blue steps in to help, proving that everyone can make a difference, no matter their size. We chose this story because it highlights kindness, helping others, and the excitement of heading off to school, reminding children that everyone has an important role to play.
2. I Love My School by Eric Carle
Join The Very Hungry Caterpillar as he explores everything there is to love about school, from reading books and learning new things to making friends and playing together. With Eric Carle’s beloved illustrations, this cheerful story introduces children to many of the positive experiences waiting for them in the classroom. We chose this book because it builds excitement around school while helping children feel familiar with their new daily routines.
3. Hello, World! School Day by Jill McDonald
Designed especially for toddlers and preschoolers, Hello, World! School Day gently introduces what a typical day at school looks like. From arriving in the classroom to participating in activities and making new friends, the simple language and bright illustrations help children understand what to expect. We chose this book because it helps reduce first-day jitters by making school feel familiar, predictable, and fun.
4. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister
The Rainbow Fish is a timeless story about a beautiful fish who learns that sharing and kindness lead to meaningful friendships. After discovering the joy of giving to others, Rainbow Fish realizes that true happiness comes from connection rather than standing out alone. We chose this classic because it reinforces important classroom values such as sharing, kindness, empathy, and building positive relationships with new classmates.
5. Spot Loves School by Eric Hill
It’s Spot’s very first day of school, and he quickly discovers just how much fun learning can be. Alongside his friends, Spot sings songs, reads stories, plays games, and enjoys a full day of new experiences. By the time it’s time to go home, he can’t wait to come back the next day. We chose this story because it presents school as a welcoming, joyful place where children can learn, play, and build confidence through everyday adventures.
As children prepare for a new school year, reading together can help transform uncertainty into excitement. Stories provide a safe space to explore emotions, ask questions, and imagine what the first day might be like, making new experiences feel much more approachable.
Our carefully selected books from the Kids & Company team encourage confidence, kindness, curiosity, and friendship while helping children feel ready for the exciting adventures that await them. Whether you’re reading before the first day of child care, preschool, or kindergarten, these stories are a wonderful way to help your little learner start the school year feeling prepared, supported, and excited to grow.
