Ready for Kindergarten (2023) by Bethany V. Freitas; illustrated by Maja Andersen

The unknown can be scary and the first day of school intimidating, for kids and the grownups who love them. Perfect for easing nerves and increasing excitement, this book is about all the things kids love to do that show they are ready to start school. Created in consultation with education experts, the book highlights skills that teachers will build upon in the classroom — like imaginative play, recognizing colors and shapes, and cooperating with friends — and encourages kids to enjoy and practice them. Look who is ready for kindergarten!

Kindergarten Hat (2020) by Janet Lawler; illustrated by Geraldine Rodriguez

Carlos Abredo loves building forts, playing soccer, vrooming cars, and gardening. But after moving to a new town, he's nervous to start his first day of kindergarten. What if the bus gets lost? What if he can't make friends? What if he can't find his teacher?! Starting school can be intimidating for anyone, but when you're also the new kid, it can be downright scary. When Carlos gets a letter from his new teacher, he starts to feel a little better. He picks out a gift for her, and after a much-needed hug from Mom, he sets off for his first day. But when his present is accidentally ruined, Carlos has to get creative to save the day.

Mr. S (2023) by Monica Arnaldo

Mr. S is a hilarious picture book about a kindergarten class arriving for the first day of school that can't find their teacher — only a delicious-looking sandwich and the words "Mr. S" scribbled on the chalkboard. Chaos ensues as the kids argue whether or not the sandwich must be their teacher. A comical book of mayhem and chaos, perfect for back-to-school

Tayra's Not Talking (2022) by Lana Button; illustrated by Christine Battuz

The students in Miss Seabrooke's kindergarten class are surprised when they welcome a new student and she doesn't respond, even when they talk LOUDER. They are even more surprised when Tayra doesn't answer the teacher. And they are outraged when she accidentally knocks over one of the students and doesn't apologize. Except for Kitty, who puts herself in Tayra's shoes, offers a welcoming hand, and shows Tayra around. When the other students see them having fun, they join in, too. And as they all learn to communicate without talking, smiles abound, and they are soon fast friends.

Henry At Home (2021) by Megan Maynor; illustrated by Alea Marley

Liza is Henry's big sister, and Henry is Liza's little brother. As long as there have been Henry and Liza, they have always done everything together. Haircuts, birthday parties, tree climbing, even flu shots. Liza and Henry. Henry and Liza. But that all changes when Liza starts school for the first time, heading off to kindergarten and leaving her little brother behind. Henry is incredulous. How can Liza do this to him?

Super Saurus Saves Kindergarten (2017) by Deborah Underwood; illustrated by Ned Young

Arnold has a plan. The evil genius Zorgo — disguised as Mr. Zachary — will never stop him. That's because Arnold is ... SUPER SAURUS! No kindergarten in the universe can hold him. Or can it?

Kindergarrrten Bus (2018) by Mike Orstein; illustrated by Kevin Barry

It's the first day of kindergarten. Just imagine all the fun things to learn and experience! And who better than a pirate captain to drive the bus to school? He's ready to share all the rules one needs to know to ride the bus and to get along with mates at school. But with the anticipation of the first day of school, there also comes a bit of anxiety. And it turns out that being a big, blustery pirate captain is no guarantee against feeling insecure and a little frightened in strange and uncomfortable situations. Who can help a rough and tough pirate captain get over his fears and back to driving the school bus?

The Class (2016) by Boni Ashburn; illustrated by Kimberly Gee

Alarm clocks go off and students all over town wake up and get ready for their big day. Some feel eager, others are nervous, and a few are even grumpy! But they all get dressed, eat breakfast, pack backpacks, and make their way to school, where they will meet their new teacher and become a wonderful new class. Boni Ashburn’s snappy rhyming text and Kimberly Gee’s adorable and diverse group of children make this a great pick for little ones getting ready for their first day of school.

Butterflies on the First Day of School (2019) by Annie Silvestro; illustrated by Dream Chen

Rosie can’t wait to start kindergarten — she’s had her pencils sharpened and her backpack ready for weeks. But suddenly, on the night before the big day, her tummy hurts. Rosie’s mom reassures her that it’s just butterflies in her belly and that she’ll feel better soon. Much to Rosie’s surprise, when she says hello to a new friend on the bus, a butterfly flies out of her mouth! As the day goes on, Rosie frees all her butterflies and even helps another shy student let go of hers, too.