A first school, a new class, new friends.
Spring is a season when even elementary school children encounter many firsts and new experiences.
In this article, we’ll introduce picture books recommended for elementary schoolers in spring!
We’ve gathered picture books that are perfect for first graders starting their very first school life after graduating from daycare or kindergarten, as well as books that will make going to elementary school feel exciting and fun.
If your child is feeling anxious—Will I make friends? Can I keep up with my studies?—have them read these picture books and catch the joyful excitement that will carry them into school life!
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Picture books perfect for spring recommended for elementary school children. Picture books that make you look forward to elementary school (1–10)
I love elementary school.Written by: Ui / Illustrated by: Egashira Michiko
You want elementary school life to be as fun as possible, right? Surely the adults around you wish for that too.
That’s why I recommend the picture book “I Love Elementary School.” The text is by Ui, and the illustrations are by Michiko Egashira.
The standout feature of this book is that it offers 16 pieces of advice for new students from the perspective of a second grader.
It was originally self-published, but word of mouth spread thanks to its content, and it became a big hit.
Every piece of advice is sure to be helpful.
A First Grader’s DayWritten by: Okashuuzo / Illustrated by: Fujita Hioko
First Grade, One Day is a book that shows what elementary school is all about.
Written by Shuuzou Oka with illustrations by Hioko Fujita, this is a large-format guide picture book.
As the title suggests, it’s designed to guide readers through a day at elementary school.
It depicts everything from language arts and math classes to lunchtime and going home, letting readers virtually experience a real day at school.
Another charm is the richly detailed scenery—be sure to take your time and look closely.
First graders’ school explorationWritten by: Okashuuzo / Illustrated by: Fujita Hioko
A fun, story-style way to learn about elementary school is First Graders’ School Exploration.
This picture book features text by Shuzo Oka and illustrations by Hioko Fujita.
In it, a new first-grader teams up with second-grade students to explore their elementary school.
There are many picture books that introduce elementary school, but it’s rare to find one that focuses on the school building itself.
Another highlight is the engaging direction—there are plenty of heart-pounding scenes that draw readers in, making this book highly recommended.
Please don’t get mad at me.Written by Shigenori Kusunoki / Illustrated by Kiyotaka Ishii
I’d like to introduce the picture book “Okodade Masenyou ni,” which teaches the importance of caring for those close to us.
It is created by Shigenori Kusunoki and Kiyotaka Ishii.
The story depicts a boy who is always getting scolded.
At first glance, it’s hard to tell what he’s thinking, but there are reasons behind his actions… that’s how the story unfolds.
As you read, try to imagine how the boy feels! By the way, since the story is set during Tanabata, it’s a great read for summer as well.
I’m going to school tomorrow.Written by: Mildred Kantrowitz / Illustrated by: Nancy Winslow Parker / Translated by: Teiji Seta
This is the picture book “Tomorrow, I’m Going to School,” starring a little boy who will start elementary school tomorrow.
Just because you’re becoming an elementary schooler doesn’t mean you suddenly turn into a big sister or big brother, does it? After being told “Good night,” the boy can’t quite settle down; he fidgets and talks to his favorite stuffed animal.
At first you may wonder what he’s doing, but by talking to his stuffed animal, he’s actually encouraging himself and trying to be brave.
You’ll be left with a warm feeling after reading it, so parents and guardians, please try reading it together with your child.
Let’s go to elementary school.Written by: Hiroshi Saitō / Illustrated by: Rokudai Tanaka
“Let’s Go to Elementary School” is packed with various interactive features.
This work is by Hiroshi Saito, who has created numerous classic picture books.
It addresses questions that arise in elementary school life, such as “What should I do when I go to school?” and “What should I do when I use the nurse’s office?” Another notable feature is the inclusion of elements like quizzes and mazes that children can actively enjoy.
Thanks to these features, children can stay focused to the end and have fun while learning about school.
A Day in Class 1-1Photos and text: Toshio Kawashima
Let me introduce a unique picture book, “1-nen 1-kumi no 1-nichi” (A Day in Class 1-1).
Created by Toshio Kawashima, it’s technically a photo picture book.
Through real photographs, it portrays daily life at an elementary school.
Because they’re photos, you can really feel the textures and atmosphere.
Another notable feature is the use of speech bubbles on the photos, giving it a manga-like presentation.
Children who love picture books will enjoy it, of course, and it’s likely to appeal to kids who like photography and manga as well.



