Books to help your child cover the basics before they start school.
Find more resources on preparing for school, including recommended books and a loanable school pack.
Let’s Get Ready for School
Jane Porter
Starting school can be a great adventure, but it can make you feel a bit nervous too. What will school be like? What will we do there? What if I miss Mummy? Do I have to go?
Jane Porter answers all of these questions and more in this warm, witty and reassuring book for young children that explores everything they’ll need to know before starting school.
Ruffles and the Red, Red Coat
David Melling
Ruff! Ruff! Hello, Ruffles! There are lots of things Ruffles likes – and lots of things he doesn’t! He loves scratching, digging and chewing but he does not like wearing his coat on rainy days. No, no, no, no, NO!
But when Ruffles wants to splash in puddles with his best friend, Ruby, he soon learns that some things are definitely worth wearing your coat for!
No, I’m a… Flamingo!
Catharine Robertson
When a dad asks his child to please get dressed, the answer is clear – no, I’m a flamingo! No, I don’t need shoes. No, I won’t be too hot. I’m a flamingo!
This sensible versus silly dynamic between adult and child brings humour and is something every parent will be able to relate to. The double gatefold at the end provides an unexpected twist.
Pantosaurus and the Power of Pants
Rebecca Gerlings
Pantosaurus can’t wait to wear his new pants. Dinodad says the pants will give him special powers!
When Pantosaurus has a mix-up at school and thinks he needs to change clothes in front of all his friends, Pantosaurus uses his super pants to give him the confidence to speak up and say a big, loud NO!
Even though it’s just a mix-up, Dinodad is still proud of Pantosaurus for using his words.
Guess Who’s Getting Dressed
Smriti Prasadam-Halls and Marta Altés
Guess who’s getting dressed, is it you? Who’s put on some stripy socks? Is it reindeer? No, it’s Fox! Who’s put on this spotty coat? Is it Cat? No, it’s Goat!
An interactive, stylish, young and fun Guess Who board book.
Penguins Don’t Like Pants!
Jonny Leighton and Robert Starling
Getting dressed is difficult when you’re a penguin. Socks are tight and titchy. Jumpers are way too itchy. And penguins really, really don’t like pants!
But can they find ways to make getting dressed more fun?
Why Should I Get Dressed?
Katie Daynes
Flaps, facts and an exciting range of outfits will inspire kids to get dressed for the day.
From sports kit and superhero costumes to coats and wellies, this delightful book makes getting dressed fun.
We Can Get Dressed
Marion Cocklico
This novelty book with a sweet story has fun flaps to lift and mechanisms to move, as well as practical tips for parents and carers on each page.
Endorsed by leading Early Years Consultant, Dr. Amanda Gummer.
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