Summer vacation has come to an end, and many of the children in our lives are getting back into the routine of more structured days, and reuniting with old friends as well as making new friends. For some, it is a brand-new experience that can be both scary and exciting! Reading picture books about school can help calm some of those fears, as well as share common experiences. As parents and caregivers, we can use these stories as a starting point to talk to our children about the experiences they are having at school. School should feel like a safe and enjoyable place to be. We have many stories about school in our children’s book collection ranging from serious to silly, and I will be highlighting some of my personal favorites here.

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold

This is a must-read! With bold, detailed illustrations and a story that follows a day at school for a diverse group of students, children are given the message that they are all welcome at school. “We’re part of a community. Our strength is our diversity. A shelter from adversity. All are welcome here.” This book promotes acceptance and brings warm feelings to readers.