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by Ann Marie Hannon (Author)
The First Day of School by Ann Marie Hannon is a gentle and encouraging children's picture book about Lila, a little girl who is preparing for one of childhood's biggest milestones: the first day of kindergarten. Lila has always loved learning and playing, and she enjoyed her preschool days, but starting kindergarten brings a new feeling into her heart. Some children may have their mothers bring them to school, but Lila's mother cannot do that, so Lila must ride the school bus and face the day with courage.
Before Lila leaves, her mother reminds her that she is loved, strong, and capable. Even with that reassurance, Lila feels nervous when she arrives at school. She steps down from the bus with a frown, walks through the school hallway, and almost cries. But instead of letting her worries take over, Lila makes an important choice. She wipes away her tear, changes her sadness into focused attention, and turns her "sad" feelings into "excited" energy.
As the school day unfolds, Lila enters her classroom, makes friends, listens to her teacher, joins in singing, follows the Golden Rule, and discovers that school can be filled with good memories. By the end of the day, she proudly tells her mother that although she missed her at first, she learned how to turn sadness into excitement - and that helped her feel brave, happy, and energized.
Written in simple, rhythmic language with bright illustrations, this book helps young children understand that first-day-of-school worries are normal. It encourages children to talk about their feelings, choose a positive attitude, and approach new experiences with confidence. The book also includes guidance for parents, encouraging adults to read the story with children, ask questions, and help them retell the story in their own words.
Perfect for preschoolers, kindergarten students, parents, teachers, school counselors, librarians, and early childhood educators, The First Day of School is both a comforting story and a practical emotional-learning tool. It is especially helpful for children preparing for kindergarten, riding the school bus for the first time, separating from a parent, making new friends, or learning how to transform worry into excitement.
