Books to help kids navigate school emotions and build confidence

Here are some age-appropriate picks that offer comfort, encouragement and a touch of fun.

Preschool/Kindergarten

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn. A gentle story about separation anxiety, this sweet tale of a raccoon heading to school reassures young children that a parent’s love stays with them wherever they go.

Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins. Colorful and upbeat, this book introduces preschool routines in a fun and friendly way with Maisy the mouse and her animal friends.

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney. Perfect for nervous little ones, this rhyming story follows Llama Llama as he faces his first day without Mama—and finds out school can be pretty fun after all.

Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes. Wemberly worries about everything — especially starting school. This relatable and humorous book is ideal for easing the minds of little worriers.

Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3)

First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg. With a surprise twist at the end, this clever story shows that everyone — even teachers — gets nervous on the first day.

School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex. Told from the perspective of a brand-new school building, this book offers a funny and tender look at first-day nerves from an unexpected point of view.

What If Everybody Did That? by Ellen Javernick. A great back-to-school reminder about kindness, personal responsibility and thinking of others, told through everyday classroom scenarios.

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson. This beautifully illustrated book encourages kids to embrace what makes them different and connect with others, even when they feel out of place.

Upper Elementary (Grades 4–6)

Wonder by R.J. Palacio. This modern classic follows Auggie, a boy with facial differences, as he attends school for the first time. It’s a moving lesson in empathy, courage and friendship.

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea. Told from the perspectives of seven fifth-graders, this novel shows how one special teacher can change lives and how classmates grow together over the course of a year.

New Kid by Jerry Craft. In this award-winning graphic novel, Jordan navigates a new school where he’s one of the few kids of color. It’s honest, funny and full of heart.

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt. A powerful story about a girl with dyslexia who learns that everyone is smart in different ways, especially with the right support.