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Best Back to School Books - Grade 1 to 3
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items Heading back to school is a big step for kids in grades 1–3, and the right stories can make the transition easier (and more fun!). This collection brings together uplifting, funny, and relatable books that ease jitters, celebrate friendships, and bui...
I adore how Beatrice, the “perfect” girl, finally makes a big mistake—and instead of crumbling, she laughs, learns, and discovers how much more fun life is when you're okay with not being perfect. A heartfelt growth‑mindset gem that reminds us all: m...
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes: Growth Mindset Book
Louis’s thoughts bounce around so much they erupt—just like a volcano! This funny and empathetic book helps little chatterboxes learn a clever “bite, breathe, then speak” trick that turns interrupting into thoughtful listening.
My Mouth Is A Volcano: Picture Book
I love this one because it takes something every kid struggles with—wiggles—and turns it into a fun, silly story that actually teaches self-control in a way kids remember.
I Have Ants in My Pants: Picture Book on Self-Control
I love this book because it shows kids that even when you feel different or nervous, sharing your story can help you find friends and feel brave.
The Day You Begin
I love how this charming book turns everyday moments into magic—each “I choose…” affirmation lets little ones decide to be brave, kind, patient, or calm, and the uplifting rhymes and bright illustrations make choosing great choices feel joyful and po...
My Magical Choices - Teach Kids to Choose
What makes this book so fun is the dog’s silly point of view—he grumbles about kids but secretly adores them, reminding us that chaos and cuddles usually go hand in hand.
The Trouble with Children (According to Dog)
What makes this story stand out is how it takes a “bad” little seed and shows his journey toward change. It’s funny, playful, and leaves kids with the heartwarming reminder that everyone can grow into something good.
The Bad Seed (The Food Group)
The best part about this story is the surprise ending—kids think they’re following a nervous student on the first day of school, only to discover it’s the teacher! A funny, reassuring way to show that everyone gets jitters.
First Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)
Kids get such a kick out of Pigeon’s dramatic protests about school—he’s worried about math, friends, even his lunchbox—and in the end, he shows that it’s okay to feel nervous. Silly, relatable, and the perfect laugh for back-to-school jitters.
The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!
What makes this book so special is how it’s written as a heartfelt letter from the teacher, reminding kids they are welcome, valued, and ready to shine. A gentle, reassuring read that sets the tone for a positive school year.
A Letter From Your Teacher: First Day
This story always makes me smile because it shows how a girl new to America finds courage to share her Korean name instead of hiding it. A beautiful reminder that our names—and our stories—are worth celebrating.
The Name Jar
The best part about Keena’s story is how real and funny it feels—her big mix-up on the first day of second grade shows that mistakes happen, and they can lead to unexpected adventures and new friendships.
Keena Ford and the Second-Grade Mix-Up
What makes this book shine is how it turns everyday moments—like sharing, helping, or saying sorry—into superpower acts of kindness. Simple, sweet, and a great way to show kids that compassion can change the world around them.
Kindness is my Superpower: Kids Book on Empathy
Kids get such a kick out of Jim Panzee’s grumpy antics—this time he’s sure school will be awful, but he finds friends and surprises along the way. I like it because it shows kids it’s normal to feel nervous about school, and that those feelings can t...
Grumpy Monkey School Stinks! Graphic Novel
I just love all of the Berenstain Bear books. I think that I had at least 12 that we read over and over.
Back to School with the Berenstain Bears
The best part about this story is how it captures the jitters and excitement of Charlie’s very first day—new friends, new routines, and learning that school can be full of fun. I like it because it gently reassures little ones (and parents too!) that...
Charlie's First Day of School: Bravery & Friendship