Best Books to Prepare Your Child to Start Kindergarten

The start of kindergarten is an exciting but often overwhelming experience for both the child and the parents. Having some expectations and knowledge about school before it starts will help the entire family transition. As a school librarian I use books to help prepare children for all sorts of life's events, including starting school. My own child starts kindergarten in August and these are the best books I've found to help prepare him for kindergarten.

The Night Before Kindergarten by Natasha Wing. Author Natasha Wing has created many "Night Before" books that play off of the classic "Night Before Christmas" poem. This installment is an adorable book to help prepare your little one for kindergarten. Your child will enjoy the rhyming words but also get some insight into what to expect in kindergarten, particularly the difficulty leaving Mom and Dad on the first day.

Kindergarten Rocks by Katie Davis. The little boy in this book is confident and not the least bit scared about starting kindergarten -- or so he says. In reality he may be just a bit apprehensive but with some help from his older sister, his stuffed dog, and a visit to school that reveals all of the awesome parts (the library, the cafeteria, etc), the little boy discovers that kindergarten really does rock.

First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg. At the beginning of this book Sarah is hiding under the covers and does not want to go to school. After some coaxing she finally arrives but with plenty of nerves. The end of the book wittily reveals that Sarah isn't who the readers think she is throughout the book. The cute twist ending will make grown ups smile, and while it may be a bit over the heads of some pre-kindergarteners, a little explanation from mom or dad will make this a great book to prepare your child for kindergarten.

Owen by Kevin Henkes. Owen is about to start kindergarten and his nosy neighbor remarks that it is time to get rid of his beloved blanket. His parents struggle with a way to get Owen to part with his blanket since he obviously cannot carry it along to kindergarten. This endearing book with author Henkes' adorable mouse characters is a great pre-kindergarten read, especially if your child has an attachment to a blanket, stuffed animal, or other object that won't be welcome at school.

Kindergarten is a huge transition for parents and kids alike. A little preparation will ease the tension for kids and parents. Try these great books to help prepare your little girl or boy to start kindergarten.