Back-to-School stories are the perfect way for kids to feel less alone at the start of a new school year. No matter what unique situation children find themselves in, there are always unknowns that can cause them anxiety. This is why we have created our Back-to-School theme of stories for children from preschool through to middle school.
Whether they are returning for a new school year, transferring schools, or even starting school for the very first time, these eight stories will help your child feel comforted as they read about how their very own customized character navigates these circumstances.
Each story offers a unique scenario, told in different writing styles, using humour and sentiment. From lyrical stories to prose, this series will help children experience how these relatable characters face their challenges, while also serving as great conversation starters for your child to share their own worries. And by customizing the main character to your own child, they will soon be able to imagine themselves taking these courageous steps on their own.
6 BACK-TO-SCHOOL STORIES FOR KIDS THIS SCHOOL YEAR
1. BACK TO SCHOOL BLUES (recommended for all ages)
As summer winds down, many children experience the "Back-to-School Blues.” This can feel like a mix of anxiety and uncertainty about the upcoming school year. In this story, the main character struggles with some heavy feelings while playing at the park. This leads them to feel that their worries about the new school year can cast a shadow even on the sunniest summer day. Through a chance encounter with a new group of friends, this story illustrates how social connections and shared experiences can brighten a child's perspective. This heartwarming tale reminds children that they are not alone in their back-to-school worries and that new beginnings can even lead to new friendships.
PREVIEW BOOK HERE!
2: THE CLOCK THAT SINGS GOODBYE (recommended for 2 to 6 year olds)
For our youngest readers, starting school for the first time can be a daunting milestone, especially for a young child who isn't ready to let go of their parent for even a few hours. In The Clock That Sings Goodbye, the main character struggles with separation anxiety until discovering an enchanted classroom clock. As the clock hums and chimes throughout the day, it provides a steady, calming rhythm that helps them navigate Circle Time, Snack Time, and Free Play. This story serves as a comforting tool for children experiencing separation anxiety, teaching them that while their parent may leave, they will always return. This concept is key to helping our youngest learners build confidence in their own school-day routine.
PREVIEW BOOK HERE!
3. THE BUTTON THAT CHEERED ME ON (recommended for 2 to 6 year olds)
Developing independence is a major focus for children starting school, yet many feel intimidated by tasks like zipping backpacks or tying shoelaces. In The Button That Cheered Me On, the main character discovers an enchanted, talking yellow button on their backpack that serves as a patient, step-by-step mentor. By offering clear instructions for daily tasks, the button empowers the child to try things on their own. This story is an excellent resource for children who lack confidence in initiating tasks on their own. It also shows them that with a little guidance and practice, they can take pride in saying, "I can do it myself!"
PREVIEW BOOK HERE!
4. TIME FOR A NEW SCHOOL (recommended for 4 to 8 year olds)
Transferring to a new school can make even simple morning routines feel daunting. In Time For A New School, the main character finds comfort by imagining that their pencil topper suddenly comes to life and offers them the guidance and encouragement they can’t yet find on their own. By learning to turn nervous energy into "super silly" stories, this child gains the confidence to step out of their comfort zone and participate in class activities. This story is a helpful resource for any child facing the uncertainty of a new school, offering gentle encouragement to help them find the courage to reach out and make new friends.
PREVIEW BOOK HERE!
5. THE AMAZING THINGS YOU CAN DO (recommended for 4 to 8 year olds)
Many children worry that being gentle or sensitive is a sign of weakness, especially in competitive environments like sports. In The Amazing Things You Can Do, a young royal struggles with feelings of inadequacy while playing sports and fears that their gentle nature makes them weak. With the encouragement of a cute, enchanted stuffed panda and the support of a new friend, the young royal learns that kindness and gentleness are actually forms of real strength. This story is a beautiful reminder for children that their unique traits are valuable and that showing compassion can help them overcome their insecurities and build lasting friendships.
PREVIEW BOOK HERE!
6. SAYING THANK YOU (recommended for 4 to 8 year olds)
Art class should be exciting, but for many children, the fear that their creation won't look "perfect" can turn creativity into anxiety. In Saying Thank You, the main character struggles with the pressure to create a masterpiece, and becomes worried that their work won’t match their vision or compare to others. With the help of a cheerful, singing bluebird, the child learns that what matters most is their experience, not the outcome. This is the perfect story for any child who struggles with perfectionism or the fear of trying something new at school.
PREVIEW BOOK HERE!
Read our recent story about how themed stories help children connect their learning and also serve as "social stories" that provide a safe, predictable framework for exploring complex emotions like anxiety, perfectionism, and transitions in a low-stakes environment.