The start of the school year is always a time filled with both anticipation and anxiety for teachers and students alike. It is a time to establish routines, set the academic tone, and build relationships. One time-honored strategy for achieving these objectives is the simple yet powerful act of reading aloud. Reading aloud promotes listening skills, vocabulary development, and a sense of community within the classroom.
SUMMARY LIST:
- “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson – A story that encourages students to find courage to connect with others, embrace diversity, and practice self-acceptance.
- “The Smallest Spot of a Dot” by Linsey Davis and Michael Tyler – A narrative that promotes self-confidence and the concept that every individual matters, no matter how small.
- “The Two of Us Belong Together” by Michael Engler – This heartwarming book emphasizes friendship, understanding, and the value of companionship.
- “Never, Not Ever!” by Beatrice Alemagna – A compelling tale that teaches resilience, overcoming fear, and embracing the new.
- “A Letter From Your Teacher on the First Day of School” by Shannon Olsen – An engaging read that calms first-day anxieties and sets a welcoming tone for the school year ahead.
1. “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
Product Link: “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
“The Day You Begin” is a heartwarming book about finding courage to connect with others, even when you feel scared and alone. It serves as an invaluable tool at the beginning of the school year to talk about diversity, inclusiveness, and self-acceptance. Reading this book aloud to your students can help them to navigate through their anxieties and realize that everyone, at some point, feels like an outsider.
2. “The Smallest Spot of a Dot” by Linsey Davis and Michael Tyler
Product Link: “The Smallest Spot of a Dot” by Linsey Davis and Michael Tyler
In “The Smallest Spot of a Dot”, the authors convey a powerful message about self-confidence and the significance of every individual, no matter how small. It’s a fantastic read-aloud for the beginning of the school year, as it encourages students to believe in their worth and potential.
3. “The Two of Us Belong Together” by Michael Engler
Product Link: “The Two of Us Belong Together” by Michael Engler
“The Two of Us Belong Together” is a heartfelt story that places emphasis on friendship, understanding, and the value of companionship. Reading this aloud in the classroom nurtures a sense of togetherness and reinforces the idea that every student in the classroom community is important and valued.
4. “Never, Not Ever!” by Beatrice Alemagna
Product Link: “Never, Not Ever!” by Beatrice Alemagna
“Never, Not Ever!” is a captivating story about a stubborn little girl who overcomes her fear of the unfamiliar. The resilience of the main character offers a beautiful lesson for students – encouraging them to embrace new experiences and challenges that come their way, a perfect lesson for the beginning of a new school year.
5. “A Letter From Your Teacher on the First Day of School” by Shannon Olsen
Product Link: “A Letter From Your Teacher on the First Day of School” by Shannon Olsen
“A Letter From Your Teacher on the First Day of School” provides reassurances, encouragement, and a hearty welcome to students. This book is a great way to set the tone for the year, ease first-day jitters, and establish a relationship of trust and warmth with your students. Reading it aloud in the classroom brings about a comforting environment for students as they navigate their first steps into a new academic year.
Conclusion: By incorporating these engaging books into your beginning-of-the-year routine, you’ll help your students feel seen, valued, and ready to learn. Happy reading and here’s to a fantastic start to your school year!
