10 Books to get Kids Ready for Kindergarten

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My Favorite Books About Starting Kindergarten : Dealing with the Transition of Pre-k to Kindergarten

Preparing your child for kindergarten can be a joyful journey with the right resources. These 10 carefully selected books not only entertain but also educate, helping your child transition smoothly into the exciting world of kindergarten. From stories about the first day of school to adventures in the classroom, these books are perfect for both nervous and eager learners. Dive into our top picks and discover the magic of reading together!

To get my son ready to start Kindergarten, I’ve compiled a list of books that will help kids transition from preschool to kindergarten.

My son recently graduated from preschool and will be starting kindergarten in the fall. It’s big a change and with that comes many emotions. Books are perfect for helping guide kids through big emotions in a way they understand.

Kindergarten is an exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking time for kids and for parents alike.

Transitioning to a full day of school is a big jump for most kids, and getting them used to the idea of “big kid school” is something that starts way before they even set foot in their new kindergarten classroom.

I’m getting him ready but continuing our education throughout the summer by reading books and doing activities but also by reading specific books about starting kindergarten.

I’m confident we’ll have a fun time and can’t wait to see how he transitions and continues to grow in knowledge.

1. Kindergarten, Here I Come by D.J. Steinberg

Get ready for school with these fun poems!

Celebrate the milestones and firsts of kindergarten with D.J. Steinberg’s “Kindergarten, Here I Come!” This collection of poems covers everything from the first day jitters to learning the ABCs, making friends, and more. It’s a perfect book to read together and discuss what to expect in the exciting world of kindergarten.

Unique Features:

Fun and relatable poems for young readers

Covers a wide range of kindergarten experiences.

Encourages discussion about school activities and emotions.

What poem or rhyme did you enjoy reading with your child? Share your favorite in the comments!

Buy “Kindergarten, Here I come!”

2. Kindergarten Rocks!

Dexter already knows everything there is to know about kindergarten. His big sister, Jessie, told him all about it. So Dexter is not scared. Not even a little bit. But his stuffed dog, Rufus, is scared. Actually, he’s terrified. But Dexter–er, Rufus–has nothing to fear: As he’ll soon find out, kindergarten rocks!

3. Countdown to Kindergarten

It’s just ten days before kindergarten, and this little girl has heard all there is to know–from a first grader–about what it’s going to be like. You can’t bring your cat, you can’t bring a stuffed animal, and the number one rule? You can’t ask anyone for help. Ever. So what do you do when your shoes come untied, if you’re the only one in the class who doesn’t know how to tie them up again?

Told with gentle humor by Alison McGhee and brought to exuberant life by New Yorker cartoonist Harry Bliss, this lighthearted take on pre-kindergarten anxiety will bring a smile to the face of every child–and parent–having first-day jitters.

4. Clifford Goes to Kindergarten

Emily Elizabeth is starting Kindergarten and she’s a little nervous. Good thing that the teacher sent a note home that says each child can bring something from home to make the transition a little easier. But the teacher didn’t bet on a child bringing something–or someone–as big as Clifford!

5. On the First Day of Kindergarten

Perfect for nervous/excited kids about to go to kindergarten (and their parents!). This engaging adaptation of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” convinces parents and children alike that there is no place cooler than a kindergarten classroom.

6. 1 2 Days of Kindergarten: A Counting Book

Drawing on the rhythm and rich repetition of the familiar carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” The Twelve Days of Kindergarten is a welcoming introduction to school. Upbeat text celebrates the new adventure of school, and hilariously detailed illustrations showcase kindergartners that every child, teacher, and parent will recognize with glee. Readers of all ages will want to enroll!

7. Jumping Into Kindergarten

Follow Roo as he figures out how to use and apply his amazing QI Skills: ME, WE, WHY, WILL, WIGGLE, WOBBLE and WHAT IF!

8. The Night Before Kindergarten

It’s the first day of school! Join the kids as they prepare for kindergarten, packing school supplies, posing for pictures, and the hardest part of all—saying good-bye to Mom and Dad. But maybe it won’t be so hard once they discover just how much fun kindergarten really is! Colorful illustrations illuminate this uplifting takeoff on the classic Clement C. Moore Christmas poem.

9. Miss Bindergarten Has a Wild Day in Kindergarten

10 Books to get kids ready for kindergarten

Things are always a little rowdy in a class of twenty-six kindergartners, but there are some days when chaos reigns. Watch what happens in Miss Bindergarten’s rambunctious class when water overflows, ants are on the loose, and oozy paint smudges. How will Miss Bindergarten and the kindergartners get everything back in order? This is one kindergarten adventure not to be missed!

10. Curious You: On Your Way!

Curious You: On Your Way! is a perfect sendoff for children of all ages entering a new phase of their lives. Follow along with George in classic scenes from many of his original books as he provides words of congratulations and encouragement to anyone who has accomplished much but still has many things to see, to do, and to dream!

Hope you enjoyed this list and revert to it when Kindergarten rolls around. Make sure to Pin it!