10 Super Handy Books for Kids Starting Preschool

Inside: 10 super handy books for children starting preschool.

My children’s first day of preschool was a special milestone in all of our lives and, as a parent, I remember questioning whether or not I had “done enough” to prepare them for what laid ahead. Would they make friends? Would they share with others? Would they sit still during storytime??!

One thing that helped prepare us for that first day of school was reading books about starting preschool. This not only gave them visual examples of how to get ready, the preschool daily routine, and more than one reminder to play nicely with others, it also got them excited for this new chapter in their lives. 

If you have a child who has just started preschool or will begin soon, check out this great list of 10 exciting books to prepare kids for preschool. We loved them, and I hope you will too.

RELATED: If you are instead looking for books for children starting kindergarten or first grade, check out our list of Best Starting School Picture Books.

10 Best Books to Prepare Kids for Preschool

Preschool, Here I Come by D.J. Steinberg No preschool book list would be complete without Steinberg’s wonderful rhyming book that celebrates all of your preschooler’s first experiences. The author infuses humour into each page, and your child will enjoy telling you which of the book’s events come true for them as the school year progresses. Available: Amazon

This Is How We Get Ready by DK One of the most challenging things for my children when they were starting preschool was adjusting to a new morning routine. DK’s preschool transition book provides simple steps and bright illustrations to help everyone in your household get out the door prepped and ready for the day’s adventures. Available: Amazon

The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing If your child is a fan of The Night Before Christmas, they’ll adore this book about going to school. Billy is so anxious about his first day of preschool that he can’t go to sleep. However, he soon discovers that school is not as scary as he thought, and he can’t wait to return and see his friends the very next day. Available: Amazon

Maisy Goes to Preschool by by Lucy Cousins A familiar and well loved character in our house, Maisy starts preschool with Tallulah, Dotty and Cyril. The story features many of the activities that make up a typical daily routine at kindergarten – everything from playing inside and out, sharing snack time together, using the bathroom and having a rest time. Available: Amazon

Pete the Kitty’s First Day of Preschool by James Dean My children are huge fans of the Pete the Cat books, and I love that the authors adapted this beloved character for preschoolers. Your child will enjoy following Pete the Kitty as he has his first exciting day of school, complete with fun songs, painting, and tasty snacks (of course!). This book is a great beginning preschool book for preparing children for the school day structure as well. Available: Amazon

Hello Preschool! by Priscilla Burris An adorable, simple but exciting introduction to all of the new discoveries children may make in their preschool classroom and routine – from having their very own cubby space to circle time, Hello Preschool! is sure to answer many of the questions your child has about starting school. Available: Amazon

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Starting Preschool Books About Friendship

Kindness is my Superpower by Alicia Ortego I firmly believe that when it comes to teaching our children kindness and empathy, it’s best to lead by example. Ortego’s colorful and engaging book provides the perfect visuals of what it looks like to care for others and be more inclusive. Lucas, the book’s main character, ultimately discovers that generosity, love, and kindness are superpowers indeed. Available: Amazon

For more books about kindness, check out this list of Picture Books About Kindness.

We’re Different, We’re the Same by Bobbi Kates Now more than ever, it’s essential to teach our children that although everyone is different in many ways, our humanity unites us. The beloved Sesame Street characters illustrate the power of diversity in simple ways that preschoolers can understand. It also serves as a reminder to all that we experience similar emotions, needs, and feelings. Available: Amazon

Yo! Yes? by Chris Raschka Raschka’s award-winning book about the beauty of differences is brought to life in this story of two friends who meet and become friends. Each character may only use a few words, but they’re enough to powerfully illustrate that not everyone has to speak the same way to say the same things. Available: Amazon

For more books like this, check out our big list of the best books about diversity and difference and this great list of the very best books about friendship.

How Do Dinosaurs Stay Friends? by Jane Yolen As many of us know, lasting friendships require time, effort, and love. Help your preschooler understand both the value and challenges of friendship, as well as what they can do when they fight or disagree with their pals. The book’s naughty dinosaurs illustrate the importance of caring for each other with humor and hugs. Available: Amazon

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins Although this particular concern may not be at the forefront of your mind, you and your preschooler will enjoy reading this book about going to school. Penelope Rex is excited for her first day of school, but she has to learn the hard way that although humans may be delicious, it’s best to refrain from eating them! Available: Amazon

For more books like this, you have to check out our list of 101 Social Skills Books for Kids.

While the thought of starting preschool can seem a little scary for your child, it’s also important to show them how exciting and life-changing this new journey is. I hope this list of books helps to prepare kids your child (and you family) celebrate this joyful milestone.