Books to Support Children starting school
This post includes books gifted for review
With many children walking back through the school gates this week after a long and enjoyable 6 week break; there may be a bit of anxiety (from parents and children alike!)
My youngest daughter is starting reception this year and we’ve been checking out some of the beautiful picture books that can help the transition back to school (or nursery) settings. Here are some of our favourites!
Wolf Girl by Jo Lorring Fisher
When Sophy starts a new school she really struggles to fit in and feels incredibly shy. One day she is whisked away to a world where she meets a wolf and her cub, and manages to find her voice. A beautifully illustrated tale of overcoming isolation, feeling shy and making friends.
This book also sends a really positive message that its ok to be different, and no matter how alone you can feel at times, there is always someone out there just like you!
Love by Corrinne Averiss
This book is just gorgeous. With beautiful illustrations throughout, this story is an ideal read for younger children who are experiencing being separated from the ones they love – whether that’s due to Covid times in 2020, starting a new school or nursery, or who’s parents may live in separate houses.
The story reminds children that love is like a piece of string that can stretch and stretch – although you may not always be able to see who is on the other end – they are always there. Sometimes the string may get frayed or tangled. but love never breaks.
Using the visual metaphor of string to represent love, it shows how new strings can form and old strings can last the test of time, even when challenges get in the way.
Everybody Feels Series
Beautifully illustrated; the books in the Quarto Everbody Feels series showcase a range of different scenarios in which children may feel a particular emotion – from sadness to jealously, anger, loneliness or fear.
With relatable characters and scenarios, practical hints and tips on how to manage these emotions as well as next steps and discussion prompts to start a conversation, these are a great way to talk about mental health topics with young children! See them in more detail here
Mooncat and Me by Lydia Correy
With determination and a bit of imagination, there’s absolutely nothing you can’t do…
Mooncat and Me is a delightful story for any child experiencing the anxiety of moving home or starting a new school.
Pearl’s moving to a new house and is scared. She won’t know anyone and no one will know her. What if no one talks to her, what if she doesn’t make any friends? How will she cope??
With the help of her imagination and a giant white cat, Pearl gradually grows in confidence and learns that new adventures can be exciting too!!
Neve loves the beautiful illustrations and the repeated ‘mooncat was there’. A calm, supportive and reassuring read for those experiencing big changes in their life. Thanks to Macmillan for our gifted copy.
What other books have you read that helped your children going back to school?
