Going to school for the first time—or even returning—can be intimating for students. They get the jitters and don’t know what to do with them. Back-to-school books like First Day Jitters face those butterflies head-on in a humorous way, acting as a heartwarming reminder that teachers get the jitters, too.

This beloved picture-book supports social-emotional learning by helping children recognize their feelings and understand how those around them—like their family, friends, and teachers—can help ease their worries. This relatable read is the perfect conversation starter for any child facing the jitters.

Once they've had a successful first day at school, download the Certificate of Courage to celebrate their bravery. And, they can have fun filling out the First Day Memories page!

Pair these These four picture books  with First Day Jitters to help your child confidently go to school, not just on first day, but any time of the school year.

Lola Goes to School

Lola Goes to School is a comforting and cheerful picture book that explores the school day and it's new routine for first-time students. In this sweet story, Lola prepares for the day, plays, learns, and says goodbye on her first day at school. The perfect book for children who wonder what will happen on the big day!

A New School Year: Stories in Six Voices

The jitters aren't just for students who are experiencing school for the first time, but for older students too. A New School Year: Stories in Six Voices introduces a diverse group of six children ranging from kindergarten through fifth grade. Each child prepares for the new school year with not just nerves, but excitement too as they hustle in the morning, meet new teachers and new classmates during the day, and head home at the end of the day.

Each child shares a different perspective as they share their worries, hopes, and success on the first day of the school year.

I'm New Here

I'm New Here is a great way to prepare your child for meeting new classmates. Following three immigrant students from Guatemala, Korea, and Somalia, the story explores the challenges of learning a new language and adjusting to a new school while holding on to one's cultural roots. With the support of kind classmates and teachers, each child finds their voice and place in the classroom. A wonderful picture book for immigrant students, new students, and even children preparing to welcome someone new to their classroom.

A warm and reassuring resource to help children understand what it means to welcome others, build cross-cultural friendships, and create a community where everyone feels seen, safe, and valued.

Rostam's Picture-Day Pusteen

New kids sharing their culture will appreciate Rostam's Picture-Day Pusteen, a picture book about identity and courage while being in a new environment. Rostam moved to the U.S. from Iran and he's nervous about wearing his traditional pusteen for school pictures. This gentle, relatable story explores the social-emotional challenges of fitting in while staying true to yourself.

Encouraging young children to celebrate what makes them unique and to embrace the differences in others, too. A thoughtful reminder that sharing your story can help others feel brave enough to share theirs.

All of these heartfelt stories foster empathy, confidence, and inclusion, making them perfect companions for the new school year as your child learns to navigate friendships, learn to express themselves, and celebrate what makes everyone unique.

Other Charlesbridge favorites include:

Someone New, a companion story to I'm New Here
Clothesline Clues to the First Day of School
Chicken Soup for the Soul BABIES: No School for Me! (Change Is Hard)
Did You Burp? How to Ask Questions (or Not!)
Counting Kindness: Ten Ways to Welcome Refugee Children

For more back-to-school books, check out our collection.

← Previous Post