Back-To-School Book List

Back-to-school season can bring out ALL kinds of feelings - excitement, nerves, curiosity, and everything in between!

At the Boston Ability Center, we’re here to support kids and their families through every step of the transition. We've rounded up some of our favorite children’s books to help ease the back-to-school jitters, boost confidence, and spark meaningful conversations.

Whether your child is heading to school for the very first time or just getting back into the swing of things after summer break, these books can help them feel seen, supported, and ready for what’s ahead.

Butterflies on the First Day of School by Annie Silvestro is about Rosie, a kindergartener who is eager to start school...until the night before, when she notices a funny feeling in her belly. Her mom explains that it’s just “butterflies,” and Rosie is confused! As she starts connecting with new friends, she begins to understand - and those butterflies begin to fly away. This story not only reassures children that nervous feelings are totally normal, but also supports the development of interoception - the ability to notice and make sense of internal body signals (like a nervous stomach!) It’s a perfect read for helping kids name their feelings and build both physical & emotional awareness.

"Rosie took a deep breath. 'I have a baby sister named Emily,' she said. Three butterflies flitted into the air. 'I love to sing and play soccer. I wish I had a freezer in my room so I could eat ice cream whenever I want.' The class laughed. Rosie's belly felt a little better."

Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes: A Back to School Book for Kids (with story by Eric Litwin and art by James Dean) follows cool, confident Pete as he explores new places at school - like the library, lunchroom, and playground. As you read this book, remember: it's okay to feel a little nervous when trying something for the first time. Other kids might be feeling the same way! It’s always okay to ask for help or use a calming strategy - like taking a deep breath and thinking about your favorite people & things.

"It can be loud and busy in the lunchroom. Does Pete worry? Goodness, no! He sits down with his friends and sings his song: I'm eating in my school shoes!"

The Pout-Pout Fish Goes to School (A Pout-Pout Fish Adventure) by Deborah Diesen tells the story of Mr. Fish as he swims into his first day of school feeling unsure and out of place. He worries he won’t know any of the answers or fit in with his classmates. Mr. Fish's teacher reassures him that he is in good company and he is safe to be himself - because school is the perfect place to learn and grow!

"He rushed toward the exit. 'That's enough, I say! School is way too tough, and I'm not going to stay!' Then a soft, kind voice said, 'Don't you fret! You don't have to know things you haven't learned yet! Your classroom awaits - I'm your teacher, Miss Hewitt. I am here to help you learn and I know that you can do it!'"

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book that reminds us that we are all different, and thus there will be moments when all of us feel like outsiders sometimes. This story encourages children to embrace those differences, share their unique stories, and find courage in moments of feeling uncertain or left out.

"This is the day you begin to find the places inside your laughter and our lunches, your books, your travel and your stories, where every new friend has something a little like you - and something else so fabulously not quite like you at all."

Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor is an empowering picture book that celebrates children of all abilities and backgrounds. Inspired by her own experience living with diabetes, Sotomayor introduces a diverse group of kids who each share something unique about themselves - whether it’s a medical condition, a learning difference, or a special talent. This book encourages kids to be curious and inclusive self-advocates who are unafraid to share their own stories and ask questions of others.

"When something seems different or new I just ask my parents or my teachers and they help me to understand, especially if my friends don't feel ready to explain. This is what I've learned: Imagine if all of the plants in this garden were exactly the same - like what if we could only grow peas? That would mean no strawberries or cucumbers or carrots. It. might also mean no trees or roses or sunflowers. Just like in our garden, all the ways we are different make our neighborhood - our whole world really - more interesting and fun. And just like all of these plants, each of us has unique powers to share with the world and make it more interesting and richer. What will you do with your powers?"

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