Back-to-School Picture Books for Students of Any Age

⚓ Books    📅 2025-08-07    👤 surdeus    👁️ 3      

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Back-to-school picture books are one of my favorite things to write about. The topic is rich with options, allowing readers to choose between instructive titles that describe a specific classroom routine, books that cover the emotional arc of starting a new venture, or humorous stories that turn something as daunting as the first day of school into a riot of silly dinosaurs and dragons. Not just for young people, these books can soothe a parent’s worried mind or help a teacher wrangle a group of strangers into a classroom community.

cover of you can sit with us

You Can Sit with Me by Rachel Tawil Kenyon and Tatiana Kamshilina

One of the toughest aspects of any new situation is making connections with new people and figuring out the rhythms of a new place. That’s probably why “you can sit with me” is a phrase that feels more like a lifeline in the tender first days of school. No matter their age, people relate to the panic felt when it’s time to find a place to sit. A script for young people and a reminder for older folks, You Can Sit With Me is a great way to prepare hearts and minds to make space for new friends and ensure no one is without a place to sit.

cover the magical yet

The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi and Lorena Alvarez Gómez

Every stage of life has its pitfalls and struggles, and the constant cycle can beat you down. Unless, of course, you can harness the power of the magical yet. As each challenge rears its head, this book reminds you to envision the success you want to see, working slowly toward any goal, be it tying your shoes or speaking in public.

cover of you've got this

You’ve Got This! by Lindsay Bonilla and Keisha Morris

A phrase anyone could use on their way to the first day of anything, You’ve Got This encourages and affirms the reader. The rhythmic text and detailed illustrations bolster the repetition of the title phrase, making this a delightful read aloud. No matter the trial being faced, the warm refrain will fill you with a boost of confidence. You’ve got this.

Hopefully, you’ve found a back-to-school picture book to ease the nerves of anyone who needs a little boost. For more, check out my list of the Best Picture Books for Building Classroom Community.

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