The beginning of a new school year is an exciting time for teachers and students alike! It’s a chance to start fresh, make new connections, and set the tone for the year ahead. One way to make sure that your students have a positive learning experience from day one is by reading books together! Read-alouds help engage students’ imaginations and get them excited about being back in school.
To get started, here’s a list of 20 beginning of the year books to calm students’ nerves and engage their curious minds. These beginning of the year books will help create a positive learning environment and establish a safe classroom space. Grab your book stack and get ready to start off the new school year with some adorable, heartwarming stories!
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Beginning of the Year Books
Enemy Pie Author: Derek Munson
Seeds and Trees Author: Brandon Walden
A Letter From Your Teacher Author: Shannon Olsen
Our Class is a Family Author: Shannon Olsen
The Day You Begin Author: Jacqueline Woodson
Chrysanthemum Author: Kevin Henkes
The Kissing Hand Author: Audrey Penn
First Day Jitters Author: Julie Danneberg
Butterflies on the First Day of School Author: Annie Silvestro
School is More Than a Building Author: Kelley Donner
This is a School Author: John Schu
All are Welcome Author: Alexandra Penfold
Amelia Bedelia’s First Day of School Author: Herman Parish
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates Author: Ryan T. Higgins
Our Favorite Day of the Year Author: A. E. Ali
I Promise Author: Lebron James
Mae’s First Day of School Author: Kate Berube
You are a Beautiful Beginning Author: Nina Laden
The Truth About My Unbelievable School Author: Davide Cali
Just in Case You Want to Fly Author: Julie Fogliano
The start of a new school year is an excellent time to set the tone for learning and establish a safe and positive space in the classroom. Reading beginning of the year books together is one way to help create a warm, inviting environment where students can feel comfortable exploring the world and interacting with each other. With this list of 20 wonderful beginning of the year books, you’re sure to find something you and your students will love!
Happy Reading! 🙂