From Anxious to Awesome: Our Favorite Books for Back-to-School Jitters
The calendar has turned to late July here in Cincinnati, and with it comes a subtle shift. The fireflies seem a little less frantic, the days a little shorter, and the unmistakable pull of a new school year begins to tug at families. For many of our little ones, this brings a mix of buzzing excitement and a heavy dose of anxiety. New classrooms, new friends, new routines—it’s a lot for a small person to hold.
Here at the Brave new blog, we believe stories are one of the most powerful tools a parent has. Reading a book about school doesn’t just pass the time; it gives your child a safe space to have a "practice run" for the first day. It provides a language for their big feelings and shows them they are not alone.
Here are a few of our favorite books that are perfect for easing the back-to-school transition, each offering a unique tool for your child’s emotional toolkit.
For Separation Anxiety: The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
This is a modern classic for a reason. Chester Raccoon is nervous about leaving his mom for the first day of school. In response, Mrs. Raccoon kisses the palm of his little hand, telling him that whenever he feels lonely, he can press his hand to his cheek and feel the warmth of her love.
Why We Love It: This book provides a tangible, physical ritual that children can actively use to self-soothe. The "Kissing Hand" becomes a beautiful, portable anchor of a parent's love that a child can carry with them throughout the day. It empowers them with a concrete tool to manage their feelings of missing home.
For the Little Worrier: Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly worries about everything, from big things to little things. So, when it's time to start school, her list of worries is longer than ever. At school, however, she meets a fellow worrier, and in comforting her new friend, she begins to forget her own anxieties.
Why We Love It: This story brilliantly validates a child's feelings of anxiety. It normalizes worry, showing that it's a common experience and not something to be ashamed of. The resolution is gentle and realistic—Wemberly's worries don't magically disappear, but she learns that she can still have fun and make connections even while feeling anxious.
For Seeing the Good in Others: All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
This heartwarming book follows a group of children through their school day. The story celebrates diversity, showing children from all different backgrounds learning and playing together. The simple, repeating refrain, "All are welcome here," becomes a powerful, calming mantra.
Why We Love It: Instead of focusing on the anxiety, this book paints a vibrant, joyful picture of what school can be: a safe, inclusive community. For a child nervous about fitting in, this book can help build excitement and reframe school as a place of belonging and discovery. It's a tool for fostering conversations about diversity and inclusion from day one.
For the Child Who Feels Different: The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
This poetic book addresses the fear of being an outsider. It follows several children who feel different for various reasons—their name, their hair, the food they eat, or their quiet nature. The story beautifully illustrates that the moment you bravely share your own story is the moment you find connection with others.
Why We Love It: This book is a masterpiece of empathy. It tenderly acknowledges the vulnerability of feeling different and provides an empowering message: your unique story is your strength. It’s an invaluable tool for any child, reminding them that courage isn't about not being scared; it's about reaching out even when you are.
Making the Most of These Stories
Read Them Early and Often: Don't wait until the night before school starts. Make these books part of your reading routine in the weeks leading up to the first day.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Wonder aloud with your child. "How do you think Wemberly felt when she saw her new classroom?" "What part of school in All Are Welcome looks the most fun to you?"
Connect to Real Life: Talk about how you can use the lessons from the books. "We can do the Kissing Hand on your first day!" or "Remember, just like in the book, there will be lots of different and wonderful kids in your class."
By holding hands with a story, we can walk our children through the doors of their new school feeling a little more seen, a little more understood, and a whole lot braver
