August books for littles
Here are some of my absolute FAVORITE books to read to littles in the beginning of the year!
I taught elementary students for over a decade, and the tone at the beginning of the year is so important, especially for your littlest learners. These books share empowering stories from children of all different backgrounds, touch on growth mindset, and will show your class that you are so excited to have an incredible year with them!
Feeling different can arise from various sources – perhaps it's your appearance, your speech, your origin, your dietary choices, or even something entirely arbitrary. Taking those initial steps into unfamiliar territory can be daunting, but somehow, we muster the courage to do it.
Jacqueline Woodson's poetic words and Rafael López's stunning illustrations serve as a poignant reminder that everyone experiences moments of feeling like an outsider, yet it's a remarkable act of bravery to forge ahead. Sometimes, as we open up and start sharing our stories, we'll find that others are willing to meet us halfway, creating a beautiful connection.
Explore an educational institution where every child finds their niche, enjoys their own corner, and is cherished and valued.
In this narrative, we'll accompany a diverse group of youngsters as they navigate a typical school day, one marked by inclusivity and warm embraces. It's a place where students from various backgrounds come together to both learn from and honor each other's cultures and customs. It's a school that serves as a reflection of the world we aspire to create.
Educators go beyond imparting academic knowledge; they cultivate a sense of togetherness in their classrooms, crafting a surrogate family environment where students feel secure, welcomed, and cherished.
Through its sincere message and vividly playful illustrations, "Our Class is a Family" serves as a tool to foster and reinforce this classroom community. Children come to understand that their learning space is a haven where authenticity is encouraged, errors are learning opportunities, and kindness towards others is paramount. When their teacher shares this story aloud, students undoubtedly sense that they are part of an extraordinary and close-knit family.
"The King of Kindergarten" is a heartwarming children's book written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. The story follows a young boy on his first day of kindergarten as he embarks on a thrilling adventure. With confidence and enthusiasm, he approaches this new chapter in his life, ready to make friends, learn, and conquer the challenges that come his way.
The book emphasizes the importance of self-assurance, kindness, and the joy of learning, making it a delightful and empowering read for young children as they begin their own educational journey.
MJ is fully prepared and excited for her inaugural day in kindergarten! Her hair, elegantly braided, is adorned with her mother's special tiara, serving as a reminder that she's destined to shine in kindergarten.
However, the tiara is more than just an accessory; it symbolizes the wonderful qualities she brings to the classroom—her kindness, sociable nature, and remarkable soccer talents. Much like "The King of Kindergarten," this book is an ideal choice to foster enthusiasm for the return to school and bolster the confidence of the newest students.
Transitioning into a new school is already challenging, but what if your name is difficult for others to pronounce? Unhei, who has recently relocated from Korea, is filled with anxiety about fitting in.
Rather than introducing herself with her Korean name on the first day, she opts to select an American name from a jar. Yet, as she contemplates names like Suzy, Laura, or Amanda, none seem to truly fit. With the support of a newfound friend, Unhei will discover that the best name is her very own.
Renowned author Yangsook Choi brings us this beloved and bestselling classic, a tale that inspires the courage to embrace one's true identity and take pride in one's cultural heritage.
After enduring a day filled with the frustration of teachers and classmates mispronouncing her lovely name, a young girl expresses her desire never to return to school. In response, her mother takes her on a lyrical stroll through the city, teaching her about the musicality of names from various cultures, including African, Asian, Black-American, Latinx, and Middle Eastern. Empowered by this newfound knowledge, the girl is eager to return to school the next day and share her understanding with her classmates. "Your Name is a Song" serves as a joyous celebration, reminding us all of the beauty, historical significance, and enchantment woven into names.
This book also provides valuable content for parents, educators, caregivers, and young readers who wish to delve deeper into the names featured in the story. The "Glossary of Names" offers meanings, origins, and pronunciations for each name, and a link is included for readers to access an online video in which the author pronounces all the names featured in the book.
An exuberant, rhyming, and motivating picture book designed for those who adore "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" and every youngster encountering frustration over what they haven't mastered—YET!
From the day of our birth, each of us is accompanied by a special companion known as "the Yet." Can't tie your shoelaces? Yet! Struggling with riding a bike? Yet! Unsure about playing the bassoon? Fret not, for the Yet is there to lend a helping hand.
"The Magical Yet" serves as a valuable resource for parents and educators, transforming negativity into positivity as they guide children through the common challenges we all encounter on our learning journey. Whether young or old, this reassuring and uplifting book underscores that there are always things we haven't learned... yet!
The forest is getting ready for school, but Chester Raccoon isn't eager to go. In an effort to calm his apprehensions, Mrs. Raccoon shares a cherished family secret known as the Kissing Hand. This gesture offers him the comfort of her love whenever he faces moments of uncertainty.
Since its initial release in 1993, this heartwarming story has become a beloved classic for children and their parents, especially during separations like the first day of school, daycare, or camp. Kindergarten teachers often use it as a valuable resource. Additionally, the book includes stickers at the back, allowing children and parents to keep their Kissing Hand tradition alive.
Sarah Jane Hartwell is filled with apprehension as the new school year approaches, that unmistakable queasy feeling churning in her stomach. The thought of starting anew in a place where she knows no one and no one knows her fills her with dread.
However, with some gentle persuasion from Mr. Hartwell, Sarah Jane reluctantly takes her first steps into the classroom. Initially reserved, she soon finds solace in the friendship of Mrs. Burton, who reminds her that it's perfectly normal to feel nervous about school.
A cherished and bestselling back-to-school classic, Sarah Jane's relatable tale and its unexpected twist will bring joy to both experienced students and newcomers alike who may be anxious about their first day.
I hope you and your brand new class enjoy all these books as much as I do!
<3 Ms. McCourt
