Back to School Books for the Classroom

I've compiled a list of favorite back to school books for the classroom. They're perfect for the first day of school! These books are great as read alouds to begin the school year in the primary grades. They cover topics like first day jitters, tattling, bullying, classroom behavior, self-regulation, and excitement and fears about going to school.

YOU'RE FINALLY HERE

The bunny has been waiiiittttiinngg for the students' return to school, and tells about all the boring things he's been doing during his long wait. He's SO EXCITED you're FINALLY here!

 THE PIGEON HAS TO GO TO SCHOOL

Your students will LOVE this hilarious book about Pigeon, who's hesitant about going to school. Maybe some of your kiddos can relate?!

WE DON'T EAT OUR CLASSMATES

Penelope Rex is nervous to start school...and what's worse, her class is filled with children! So she ate them...because children are delicious! Of course, she spits them back out, and has to learn to get along with them :)

 DAVID GOES TO SCHOOL

All students just LOVE David...because he never follows the rules! In this book David goes to school. He and his teacher learn a few things about obedience...and forgiveness.

 FIRST GRADE JITTERS

Aidan is nervous to begin first grade because he doesn't know what to expect. What if his teacher talks in gibberish and he can't understand her? Will his friends be there? What will he do in first grade?

 THE KISSING HAND

Chester raccoon is anxious about leaving his mom to go to school. This book is great for easing into the transition of beginning school and being away from parents/caregivers for a time.

A BAD CASE OF TATTLE TONGUE

This book is great for primary grades in that it teaches students to differentiate between tattling and reporting. A must read for classes where there are lots of 'tattle tongues' :) 

 CHRYSANTHEMUM

In this classic by Kevin Henkes, Chrysanthemum goes to school and finds that not everyone loves her 'perfectly perfect' name as much as she does...until the teasing students are won over. This book is a great springboard for work on learning student names while teaching about respectfulness.

 HOWARD B WIGGLEBOTTOM LEARNS TO LISTEN

This book shows what kind of troubles you can get into when you don't listen...and how things become much better when you do!

 LILLY'S PURPLE PLASTIC PURSE

Lilly brings her new purple plastic purse to school and can't wait until sharing time. It distracts her learning, so her teacher confiscates the prized possession. Lilly's anger leads to revenge and then to remorse and she makes things right again with her teacher.

 THE RECESS QUEEN

'Mean Jean' is The Recess Queen who bullies the other kids and bosses them around...until a new student arrives at school and shows how to win this bully over!

For activities, book studies, class books, and craftivities to go with each of these Back to School favorites, click the link below!