Summer is winding down, and it’s time to gear up for the exciting new school year! One of the best ways to get students engaged and excited about learning is through read alouds. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, here are 10 perfect back-to-school read alouds that will captivate young minds and set the stage for a successful academic year.
- “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn: This beloved classic follows a little raccoon named Chester as he overcomes separation anxiety on his first day of school.
- “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg: In this funny and relatable story, Sarah Jane Hartwell dreads her first day at a new school, only to discover a surprising twist.
- “The Name Jar” by Yangsook Choi: Unpack themes of diversity, acceptance, and the power of identity with this heartwarming tale about a girl who is hesitant to share her Korean name at school.
- “The Recess Queen” by Alexis O’Neill: This empowering read aloud teaches kids about friendship, bullying, and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.
- “Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten” by Joseph Slate: Join Miss Bindergarten and her diverse group of animal students as they prepare for the first day of school in this delightful rhyming book.
- “Chrysanthemum” by Kevin Henkes: Explore the impact of bullying and the importance of self-acceptance through the story of a young mouse named Chrysanthemum.
- “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson: Celebrate individuality and the power of embracing differences with this poetic read aloud that encourages students to find the beauty in their own stories.
- “Wemberly Worried” by Kevin Henkes: Address anxiety and coping mechanisms with Wemberly, a little mouse who learns to navigate her worries on her first day of school.
- “Library Lion” by Michelle Knudsen: Discover the magical world of libraries and the power of breaking the rules for a good cause in this heartwarming tale about a lion who loves storytime.
- “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds: Encourage creativity and self-expression with Vashti, a girl who discovers her artistic potential and inspires others along the way.
These 10 perfect back-to-school read alouds offer valuable lessons and foster a love for learning in young students. Whether you choose to read them in the classroom or at home, they are sure to make the start of the school year a memorable and educational experience. Happy reading!
