Since it’s back-to-school season, I want to hone my focus and share my “go-to” books for establishing a respectful and positive classroom climate. These four back-to-school picture books are prominently displayed and enjoyed during the first few weeks of school (and are subsequently referred to throughout the entire year).
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If you plan to work on growth-mindset instruction, this is a foundational book that helps students understand how the brain works. It covers the basics of brain anatomy and the powerful science behind neuroplasticity. Everything you teach about growth mindset beyond this book lends credence to your arguments, resulting in buy-in from students.
This book is a MUST-HAVE for teachers who want to develop compassion and kindness in their students. Many schools use this book as a basis for their school-wide behavior plan. In the past, I purchased a small bucket for each student to keep at his/her desks. Bucket-filling behaviors were rewarded with tickets that could be redeemed for classroom privileges. Conceptually, this book is brilliant because it concretizes the abstract nature of compassion and kindness. I love the concepts in this book so much that I created a product in my TPT store, which includes ready-to-use printables and posters. Here is a small preview of the posters. Click here to view the whole product.
This sweet story shows students that even small acts of kindness can help others feel included. This back-to-school book is versatile because it is appropriate for a wide age range. With brilliant illustrations depicting Adam, the invisible boy, Tracy Ludwig takes us on his journey to make friends. Just in time for back-to-school, this literature unit helps students understand that they have the tools to make a powerful impact on their classmates.
This book is my newest favorite back-to-school book. Used for the first time last school year with my ESL groups, the activity introduced students to Unhei, a new student from Korea. We took a journey with Unhei as she came face-to-face with a new school in America, her fears of not being understood, and her ultimate decision to embrace her identity. This book fosters empathy, understanding, and compassion in its readers. Click here to view the literature unit that corresponds with The Name Jar.
Creating a community of respect and compassion is my favorite part of back-to-school each year.
Leave a comment and share your favorite back-to-school book below.
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I am Kirsten Tulsian, an elementary educator with 18 years of experience as a teacher and counselor. My passion lies in empowering students to discover their inherent brilliance through the use of engaging, rigorous, and meaningful activities. I look forward to connecting with you!
