Tips for students on the first day of school
With the new school year almost here, many Manatee County children and parents are getting ready for their big first day with last-minute shopping for new clothes and school supplies. And while the first day can be very exciting, especially when meeting new classmates and teachers, it can also be very scary.
For youngsters entering preschool and kindergarten, being away from home can be upsetting. To help kids and families prepare for back to school and ease some first day jitters, the Manatee County Public Library System has some wonderful resources.
There are hundreds of books about the first day of school for children of all ages. As a children’s librarian, I’ve decided to share with you my very favorites that are available for checkout at your local library!
For preschoolers, being separated from Mom and Dad for the first time can be frightening.
Anna Dewdney’s “Llama Llama Misses Mama” is perfect for those beginning preschool and nursery school, perfectly describing separation anxiety, but showing youngsters how much fun school can be while offering reassurance that Mama will return. Joseph Slate’s “Miss Bindergarten” series is wonderful for new kindergarteners. From learning the ABC’s, to making friends, and going on field trips, these books show children that school can be an experience to enjoy.
In Audrey Penn’s classic “The Kissing Hand,” Chester Raccoon is fearful about going to school until Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called “the Kissing Hand.” Knowing that Mommy loves you and is always there with you makes the first day of school a little less frightening.
Middle school can be an awkward transition. To make light of what can be a difficult change, James Patterson (yes, that James Patterson) has a hilarious series for middle school students. Beginning with “Middle School, the Worst Years of My Life,” this series is perfect for middle school boys. Filled with humor and a little bit of mischief, this book will help make the jump from elementary school to middle school less daunting.
The “Dear Dumb Diary” series written by Jim Benton is another wonderful series all about a middle school girl, trying to navigate her way through a series of dramatic events to which most girls can relate.
Speaking Volumes, written by Manatee County Public Library System staff members, is published each Sunday. Kimberly Barbour is a youth services librarian at the Rocky Bluff Library.
This story was originally published August 5, 2016 at 4:44 PM with the headline "Tips for students on the first day of school."