Back to School!
Children across the country are preparing for a new school year. Some children are brimming with excitement and anticipation, while others are dreading every moment. The books featured this week explore a range of experiences that children have as they begin school, and some of the unique challenges that some children face as they find a way to fit into the school environment.
Joyful Reading!
Isabel and Her Colores Go to School
Written by Alexandra Alessandri, Illustrated by Courtney Dawson
This story follows young Isabel to her first day of school. Isabel does not want to go to school, but her mother insists that she go. Isabel and her mother speak Spanish, Isabel does not speak much English. She compares the sound of English to the cold and stormy hues of her blue and white crayons, and Spanish to the warm pinks, yellows, and purples. Isabel meets some of her classmates, but they initially have trouble talking with each other. Isabel then begins to draw with her new friend, and they find a unique way to communicate. Soon, English begins to sound less intimidating to Isabel and she no longer wants of avoid school. Courtney Dawson’s vivid illustrations lend richness and texture to Isabel’s colors. Spanish words are incorporated into the English text and colorful text boxes provide the full text in Spanish as well.
I Got the School Spirit
Written by Connie Schofield-Morrison, Illustrated by Frank Morrison
Narrated by a wide-eyed young girl with a brilliant smile, readers are treated to her boundless excitement about the first day of school! Her school spirit is celebrated by the “STOMP, STOMP!” of her new shoes and the “ZIP, ZIP!” of her backpack as she invites readers to share in her joy of going back to school. Written in rhyming verse, each double-page spread features vibrant Frank Morrison’s, richly textured illustrations that capture the young girl’s exuberance, which she shares with her peers and classmates, even those who do not share her enthusiasm for returning to school. This is a delightful read, sure to inspire young children as they head back to school.
The Name Jar
Written and Illustrated by Yangsook Cho
This gently written book tells the story of Unhei, a young girl who has recently immigrated to the United States from Korea with her parents. On her first day of school, she remembers the farewell at the airport in Korea and the treasured gift her grandmother gave her --a small red pouch containing a wooden block on which her name was carved. On the school bus, the children make of Unhei’s name, so when they are introducing themselves to their teacher Unhei says she has not yet decided on her name. The children decide to place names in a jar for her to choose from. In a surprising turn of events fueled by support from one of her classmates, Unhei ultimately chooses Unhei as her name. The delicate illustrations complement the story quite well.
Beyond the Books
Getting into school routines can be challenging following the less structured days of summer. The resources provided here are designed to ease everyone back into school and school routines. The Centers for Disease Control has prepared Helping Young Children and Parents Transition Back to School which includes strategies to support young children and adults, as does 9 Tips for Supporting Children During the Back-to-School Transition. School often brings on new stressors that can difficult for children to manage on their own. Children’s Hospital of Orange County has prepared 7 stress relief techniques for kids (including handouts), and a Stress Relief Video Series narrated by children. The strategies presented can be helpful to adults a well.
Wishing you and your young ones a productive and engaging new school year!