Have a kiddo starting Kindergarten?

Its that time of year. School is starting in less than 2 weeks for some families. I have two children starting kindergarten at the end of the month. They are starting to show signs of nervousness and being a little sad to start school. Except for the 3 days a week they went to preschool, they have been at home with me for 6 years. To say they are comfortable and use to me, would be an understatement! Even if your child didn't stay at home with you, it is still a new adventure and some kids will be nervous and sad.

Macaroni KID Williamsport is here to help with those nerves. We asked family and friends for their suggestions on books to read that will help prepare kiddos for those first few days of kindergarten or school. Check out the list below! We provided links to read-alouds from YouTube.

1. First Day Jitters,

Author: Julie Danneberg

Illustrator: Judy Love

This was recommended by former second grade teacher in the Williamsport Area School District. This is a sweet story about a little girl's first day at a new school. This is perfect for kindergartners or any student starting school.

Available at the James V. Brown Library.

2. The Pigeon Has to Go to School,

Author/Illustrator: Mo Willems

We have all probably heard of the book Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, but Mo Williems has another book about that silly Pigeon. This book was recommended by a 5th grade teacher whose child started kindergarten last year. The story is about the worries and questions that students may have about school.

Available at the James V. Brown Library, Hughesville Public Library, Jersey Shore Public Library and Montgomery Public Library.

3. The Night Before Kindergarten,

Author: Natasha Wing

Illustrator: Julie Durrell

This story is about students who are getting ready for kindergarten. Join them as they prepare for the first day by packing their bookbags, taking pictures, and of course saying good-bye to their loved ones. The students will learn that it's not so hard once they figure out how much fun school can be!

Available at the Hughesville Public Library.

4. On the First Day of Kindergarten

Author: Tish Rabe

Illustrator: Laura Hughes

This story is an adaptation of "The Twelve Days of Christmas". It helps to convince students and parents that there is no better place than your kindergarten classroom. Kids and parents will learn that kindergarten is so much fun and lots to do!

Not available at our local libraries.

5. Kindergarten, Here I Come,

Author: D. J. Steinberg

Illustrator: Mark Chambers

This picture book is a bunch of smaller poem-like stories. Kindergarten, Here I Come celebrates all the little milestones that take place in Kindergarten. Your student will enjoy reading these short poems.

Available at the James V. Brown Library, Barbours, Bookmobile, Hughesville Public Library, and Pine Creek.

6. The Kissing Hand

Author: Audrey Penn

Illustrator: Ruth E. Harper & Nancy M. Leak

In this sweet story, Chester Raccoon is scared to start school. Mother Raccoon reassures him of all the fun and new adventures he will have, then kisses his hand. She tells him that she will always be with him and to put his hand to his cheek if he misses her. This story is sure to help calm those nerves of your little one!

Available at the James V. Brown Library, Hughesville Public Library, Jersey Shore Public Library, Muncy Public Library and Montgomery Public Library.

7. Monkey: Not Ready for Kindergarten,

Author/Illustrator: Marc Brown

A former guidance counselor recommended this book. She used it in her classes with kindergarteners to help them when starting school. The book is about Monkey and his nervousness and all the questions he has about starting school. He learns that there are so many fun things to do and that the teachers are there to help him. A great read to help prepare your kindergartener!

Available at the James V. Brown Library.

8. Dinosaur Starts School,

Author: Pamela Duncan Edwards

Illustrator: Deborah Allwright

This story is about a dinosaur who is not ready for kindergarten and is worried about what it will be like. With the help of a good friend, dinosaur learns how much fun and friendly school can be. In the end he is excited to go back to school the next day!