It’s back-to-school month! Your young child may be starting preschool for the first time this September. Help your preschooler get excited, or calm his or her worries, with these books from our collection. Be sure to ask a librarian for more recommendations.

It’s Time for Preschool by Esmé Raji Codell

Preschool Day Hooray! by Linda Leopold Strauss

Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins

My Preschool by Anne Rockwell

I Am Absolutely Too Small for School by Lauren Child

First Day by Joan Rankin

Reading is important, but don't forget about the rest of the essential early literacy practices. You can also write, talk, sing, and play with your child and link it all back to preschool. Draw a picture of what a preschool classroom might look like. Talk about what activities your child will do while at school. Sing a song that your child might learn at school – try Where Is Thumbkin? And finally, play school! Let your child be the teacher. 

If your child is not quite old enough for preschool, attending one of the many storytimes offered at library branches around the city can help prepare your little one for preschool and kindergarten. Many locations have storytimes designed specifically for babies, toddlers, and 3-5 year olds. You can see a list of storytimes offered here.

Visit your local branch to find out more about storytimes, great reads, and pre-literacy skills!