If they’re not already open, schools everywhere are getting ready for a new year and so are children and their parents.
In addition to buying the supplies needed, a stop at the library or bookstore may be just the thing to help get children really back in the groove.
Books help children prepare for school in lots of ways whether it’s their first time or just to remind them of some of the things that they’re returning to.
I always enjoy Lucy Cousin’s Maisy. Without a hint of anxiety, the charming mouse experiences her first when Maisy Goes to Preschool (Candlewick).
For the child who may need more reassurance than Maisy, Llama Llama Misses Mama (Viking) by Anna Dewdney reminds children that home (and affection) awaits them.
Of course, Kevin Henke’s slightly neurotic mouse-child and worriers everywhere probably share similar trepidations. If you don’t know Wemberly Worried (Greenwillow) — even if you or your children aren’t like Wemberly — this is a character worth meeting.
Books are fun all year but may be especially well-shared as a new school year starts.