Best Books to Get Ready for Kindergarten

Neither of my kids have ever had anxiety around school, so I never would have expected to need a list of the best books to get ready for Kindergarten. They both started preschool at 2, and neither ever had any trepidation about entering the classroom. They just ran on in and never looked back. At first, I was slightly offended they wouldn’t miss their mom, but as the weeks went on and a few classmates were still crying at drop off, I realized what a gift it was.

So imagine my surprise when Nolan told me he didn’t want to go to Kindergarten! I know he will love it once he’s there, but it will be a big change for him. To help ease his worries, I’ve rounded up the best books to get ready for Kindergarten.

Using books to ease kindergarten anxiety

Maybe it’s the teacher in me, but I think books are the best way to address behaviors in children. It’s always easier to talk about a problem or worry that someone else is having and give advice to a book character than it is to think about yourself in that position.

Stories give kids a chance to explore a problem and find possible solutions that would work for them without feeling like they are on the spot. There is something comforting in the fact that other people are experiencing the same things we are, even if it’s a fictional character. It give you a chance to try on different solutions to a problem without having to experience any of the consequences first hand.

It is also a great way to start a conversation so that your child feels more open to talking about their feelings or asking questions.

Best books to get ready for kindergarten

The Pigeon HAS To Go To School

Is there a more relatable character to a Kindergartener than Pigeon?

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Splat The Cat

Another series with a familiar character. Splat goes from nervous to excited to go back the next day.

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Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come

Anyone else remember Nancy Carlson books from when you were little? This book is the perfect pep talk!

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A Letter From Your Teacher On The First Day of School

For kids of all grades who are worried about what their teacher will be like.

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Miss Bindergarten Goes to Kindergarten

A funny series about all the happenings of a Kindergarten classroom.

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The Day You Begin

A sweet story that is perfect for kids of all ages. It could even work for scary situations other than school!

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Planet Kindergarten

Think of Kindergarten as an adventure into unexplored territory!

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Kindergarten Rocks

A relatable story for every new Kinder.

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The King of Kindergarten

Who doesn’t want to feel like royalty?

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On The First Day of Kindergarten

A classic that focuses on all the new, fun things your Kinder will do!

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First Day Farts

I dare you to find me a Kindergartener who won’t laugh at a potty joke.

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We Don’t Eat Our Classmates

This book will get your kids laughing and break the tension to open up conversation.

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Looking for more children’s books? Check out Children’s Books You Need in Your Collection and Favorite Holiday Children’s Books!

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