Since Hoboken children have universal pre-school, this is an experience every child goes through. For many children, this is a first separation from mom or dad. For others, it is a step up from daycare. Whichever the case, it is a giant step for children to attend “big kids’ school” for the first time in their lives, and they may be nervous about what is expected of them. Here are some books to deal with pre-school jitters:
My Preschool, by Anne Rockwell.
This book follows a little boy at preschool as he moves from saying hello to friends in circle time, to painting pictures, and to helping in class by passing out snacks.
Maisy Goes to Preschool, by Lucy Cousins.
Join Maisy and all of her friends as they spend a busy day at preschool.
Jojo’s First Day Jitters, by Jane O’Connor.
Nancy is helping her little brother, Jojo, get ready for preschool, and showing him what a difference having an experienced big sister can make.
It’s Time for Preschool, by Esme Codell.
The author describes thirteen areas of behavior, emotional readiness, and learning that are part of preparing for preschool and part of the preschool experience.
Best, Best Friends, by Margaret Chodos-Irvine.
Mary and Clare do everything together at preschool. They are BFFs. However, when Mary plans a birthday party, it puts a strain on the girls’ friendship.
Preschool Day, Hooray! by Linda Leopold Strauss.
Rhyming text describes a typical day for a child at preschool.
First Day, by Joan Rankin.
Little Haybillybun is not the only one worried about his first day of preschool. Mom misses her little one, too. However, as she rushes to school to “save” him, she discovers that Haybillybun is having a wonderful time.
Don’t Go! by Jane Breskin Zalben.
Daniel overcomes his first day of school nervousness at preschool as he plays in the sandbox, collects leaves with his classmates, and bakes cookies for snack.
All of these books, and others to prepare children for their preschool experience, are available at the Hoboken Library or through the BCCLS library system.
-Written by Lois Rubin Gross, Senior Children’s Librarian
This post is the second in a three part series, which complement special story times to be held at the Hoboken Public Library in August for children starting school for the first time. Click here for the first post.
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