Best Children’s Books for Back to School

Here are some of our family’s favorite books for back to school that talk about meeting new friends, fitting in, being sad to leave parents, feeling nervous or overwhelmed, and what to do with all the big feelings!

1. The Invisible String

   by Patrice Karst

   

   A beautifully simple story about invisible bonds that connect people who love each other, even when they’re apart. Perfect for easing separation anxiety and reinforcing security on back-to-school or during transitions.

   
   

2. All Are Welcome

   by Alfred Knopf

   

   

   Celebrates a school community where children from many backgrounds come together, emphasizing inclusion, acceptance, and that everyone belongs.

   
   

3. Same, Same But Different

   by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw

   

   A story about pen pals from different countries discovering that even with different lives, they share many similarities. Great for teaching empathy and global friendship.

   
   

4. Don’t Go to School! 

   by Maire Zepf and illustrated Tarsila Kruse

   

   A humorous twist on first-day nerves: the little bear Benno is ready for school — but his mommy isn’t! This book helps kids (and parents) laugh about separation anxiety and first-day jitters.

   
   

5. We Don't Eat Our Classmates 

   by Ryan T. Higgins

   
   

   

   A hilarious and slightly silly story where Penelope Rex, a dinosaur, starts school and learns (the hard way) that classmates aren’t snacks. It’s a funny, lighthearted way to address social boundaries, empathy, and making friends.

   
   

6. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family

   by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S.K. Ali and Art by Hatem Aly

   

   A meaningful story about identity, family, and pride, especially powerful for children who may feel different and want to belong.

   
   

7. The Rainbow Fish

   by Marcus Pfister

   

   Classic tale of a beautiful fish who learns that sharing and kindness lead to friendship and happiness. A gentle way to introduce values of generosity and community.

   
   

8. In My Heart: A Book of Feelings

   by Jo Witek with illustrations by Christine Roussey 

   

   Explores a wide range of emotions in a way kids can understand. Helps children acknowledge and talk about their feelings — valuable during the emotional ups and downs of a school year.

   
   

9. The Secret to Clara’s Calm

   by Tamara Levitt with illustrations by Jeremy Bondy

   

   The book serves as an introduction to the concept of meditation and the reader follows along as Clara learns how to manage anger and outbursts.

10. Belly Breathe

    by Leslie Kimmelman with illustrations by Lindsay Dale-Scott

    

    A mindfulness-focused book that teaches a simple breathing technique to manage stress, worry, or big feelings. Great as a calming tool before school or in challenging moments.

    
    

11. Good Morning Yoga and Good Night Yoga

    by Mariam Gates with illustrations by Sarah Jane Hinder

    

    
    

    

    A combo that guides kids through morning and night-time yoga-inspired movements and conscious breathing.

12. The Dot

    by Peter H. Reynolds

    

    A story about self-confidence and creativity: a girl who believes she “can’t draw” learns that art (and any skill) can begin with just a single mark. Great for inspiring growth mindset and bravery on the first day of school.

Share your kid’s favorite back to school books in the comments.