★ "An essential tool for parents and teachers alike" –School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW
★ "Lovely reassurance that preschool will indeed be joyous. . . this one's a must-have." –Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
A reassuring introduction for those precious first days of school by a teacher who yearned for a book like this to share with her students
The time to start preschool is a huge transition for young learners—emotionally, socially, and psychologically. Many children suffer from the separation anxiety of leaving their caregivers, fear of the unknown, and nervousness about making friends, and they find the social setting of a classroom extremely intimidating. The core message of this comforting book is that "the day flies by when you are having fun, learning with friends . . . and before you know it, it's time to return to your family." The book is also a celebration of this brief-but-sweet moment in a child's life; it highlights the important work that educators do in preparing children to transition to the next phase in their educational careers; all too soon it is "time to go" and move on to a more formal school setting. Featuring inviting crayon illustrations, children will feel reassured by the rhythmic text and repetitive phrases, reflecting the predictable schedule of each new day. The reassuring message communicated in this book is sure to be embraced by parents, caregivers, and preschool teachers alike. Educator and artist Kathryn Wanless has created a book she wished she had to use with her students facing this giant step in their lives.
Praise
? “Wanless' book opens the door to dialogue, empathy, and understanding, showing how the rhythms of preschool. . . Her illustrations mirror the text’s soft, calming tone with warm, inclusive, and expressive artwork. . . . The colors are bright, happy, and welcoming. This book can be used by families preparing for preschool as well as throughout the year, making the conversation a natural part of a daily routine. . . . An essential tool for parents and teachers alike which will foster meaningful conversations with little ones experiencing big feelings.”
—School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW
? “The text is the perfect length for little readers, and its repeated structure offers a comforting predictability. The rhymes keep the book bouncing along and give it a singsong feel ideal for children listening on a caregiver’s lap. Rendered in a pastel palette, snapshot images offer specific details yet are general enough to apply to a range of preschool environments. The common thread running through it all? School is safe, fun, and play-filled. One standout image shows a butterfly release as the insects swirl from below up and away, the children gazing up full of wonder—lovely reassurance that preschool will indeed be joyous. Whether kids are anticipating school with anxiety or excitement, this one’s a must-have.”
—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
