The first day of school can be a nerve-wracking experience for children. It can be hard to leave mom and dad and head off to a new classroom with new kids and a new teacher. But don't worry, books can help ease back-to-school anxiety. My students always enjoy seeing plots and events in books that are similar to their own lives. The biggest benefit of reading is allowing children an opportunity to exercise their imagination. Reading books about starting school can help kids feel more prepared and less anxious about what’s to come in the upcoming school year.

Here are some of my favorite back-to-school books for anxious kids:

  Educational Value Doctors from the American Academy of Pediatrics say not to underestimate the role of play in early childhood learning and development. Research from the AAP states,  “Play...

I have found that throughout my life my family’s support has been essential. Everyone faces their own challenges and family can only make those challenges easier to conquer. I attribute where I am today to the support of family and friends. Spending time with my younger family members has inspired me to write this post about the best gifts for first birthdays.