The Kissing Hand

The Wonderful Things You Will Be

Emily Winfield Martin

A beautiful, affirming book about parental love and a child's potential. It celebrates the unique qualities of children and the unwavering support of parents. The lyrical text and whimsical illustrations provide emotional comfort and encouragement. It helps children feel loved and valued, especially during times of transition.

Llama Llama Misses Mama

Anna Dewdney

A touching story about a young llama dealing with separation from his mother when starting daycare. The book explores feelings of anxiety and missing parents in a gentle, relatable way. It helps children understand that it's normal to feel scared and that parents will always return. The rhythmic text and expressive illustrations make it engaging for young readers.

The Kissing Hand Board Book

Audrey Penn

A board book version of the original Kissing Hand story, perfect for younger children. It maintains the original's emotional core of parental love and comfort during separation. The simplified format makes it accessible to very young readers. It serves as an excellent introduction to the original story's themes.

The Invisible String

Patrice Karst

A heartwarming story about the invisible connection between loved ones, even when they are apart. The book helps children understand that love connects people no matter the distance. It provides comfort and reassurance to children experiencing separation anxiety. The gentle narrative and beautiful illustrations make it a perfect companion to The Kissing Hand.

Wemberly Worried

Kevin Henkes

A story about a mouse who worries about everything, especially starting school. Wemberly learns to manage her anxiety and make friends, providing a relatable narrative for children experiencing similar fears. The book offers gentle guidance on handling new situations and overcoming nervousness. Henkes' characteristic compassionate storytelling makes it a comforting read.

Daniel Tiger's First Day of School

Becky Friedman

Based on the popular children's television show, this book helps children navigate the emotions of starting school. Daniel Tiger experiences nervousness and excitement, learning coping strategies for new experiences. The story provides practical emotional support for children facing transitions. It uses familiar characters to make the message more comforting and accessible.

The Night Before Kindergarten

Natasha Wing

A delightful book that captures the anticipation and emotions of starting kindergarten. Following the classic 'Night Before' series format, it explores a child's feelings and preparations for the first day of school. The story helps children process their excitement and anxiety about this significant milestone. Humorous illustrations make the experience feel less intimidating.

Ruby's Worry

Tom Percival

A thoughtful book about managing anxiety and understanding emotions. Ruby learns to confront and share her worries, discovering that talking about feelings can make them less overwhelming. The story provides valuable emotional intelligence lessons for children facing new experiences. The gentle approach and beautiful illustrations make it a powerful tool for emotional learning.

I Love You All Day Long

Francesca Rusackas

A reassuring book about a mother's unconditional love for her child, even when they are apart. The story emphasizes that parental love continues throughout the day, providing comfort during separations. It helps children feel secure and loved, especially when experiencing new situations. The simple, tender narrative resonates with young readers.

Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten

Joseph Slate

A charming story about preparing for the first day of kindergarten, featuring animal characters getting ready for school. The book helps children understand the excitement and nervousness of starting school. It provides a positive, engaging perspective on new experiences. The colorful illustrations and rhythmic text make it appealing to young readers.