How to go to big school by Sarah Ayoub & Mimi Purnell

This warm and gentle look at a child going to the big school, is positive in its outlook and text, making it a wonderful book to share with younger readers. The story starts and finishes with the positive values of going to school, from getting ready in the morning to being greeted by the teacher when arriving at school. At school there will be some rules to follow: asking to go to the toilet, washing hands, picking up rubbish.

Before school a bag is to be packed, with a bottle of water to last all day, a lunchbox containing cubed fruit and vegetable pieces along with a sandwich. And a hat to wear outside.

In verse form, the stanzas are easy to read out loud, and children will be able to see all the good things about going to school. One page however talks about being wary and school possibly scary, which may prompt some children to share their trepidation at going to school.

But most of the book is positive in its attitude, asking the children to put up their hands to ask questions, be respectful and take their turn. At school they will learn lots of things and make friends who will be their friends to play with at recess and lunch. The end of the day will come around quickly, but as they return home, they will be reminded that it will all be repeated tomorrow. 

Supported by warm, reassuring images, readers will identify with the smiling young girl on the cover and watch her closely as the story unfolds. They will take notice of the warm, loving family, the supportive teacher and the happy laughing groups at school. 

Themes: Family, School, Friendship.

Fran Knight