Tomorrow at Drop-Off, I'll Be Glad - by Laura Ambrosecchio (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A gentle tale sure to help children transition with ease to a new learning environment. (Picture book. 3-5) - Kirkus Reviews

Today my mom and dad drop me off at preschool for the very first time. They think I'll have fun, but they're wrong! At first, I'm super sad, but the teacher is nice, the snacks are tasty, and there's lots of stuff to do. Maybe I just need time?

This heartfelt book captures the emotions of a child's first big step into daycare or preschool, and helps them navigate this important milestone with reassurance and understanding.

The first day can be tough. New faces, a new place...and mommy and daddy won't be there! Oh no...Hmm... Wait. Could it be that drop-off tomorrow will be just fine?

Review Quotes

It's the first day of school, but this youngster is most definitely not ready.

As Mom and Dad leave, the child cries out, but the teacher offers a hug, sings a song, and reads a book aloud. Though the young narrator's reluctant to join in, it's tough to resist the fun, and eventually our protagonist is having a good time. Ambrosecchio acknowledges the fear and sadness that can ensue when children are separated from their parents, but she also believably traces the main character's increasing ease and engagement as the day progresses. The book's title reflects its upbeat message: Tomorrow the child will truly look forward to attending school. The rhythm and rhyme of the simple four-line stanzas set a slow and calm pace that leaves plenty of room for parent/child discussion and reassurance before turning the page. Each verse clearly captures the protagonist's changing emotions while also showcasing a typical busy preschool classroom that's led by a caring teacher and features activities such as storytime, blowing bubble dances, snack time, and outdoor play. Bongini's illustrations, always colorful and full of energy, become slightly more vivid as the day progresses, and the child becomes happier. The protagonist is brown-skinned with curly dark hair, the teacher is pale-skinned with a reddish bob, and the students are diverse.

A gentle tale sure to help children transition with ease to a new learning environment. (Picture book. 3-5) - Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Barbara Bongini was born in Milan, Italy. From an early age, she knew she wanted to be an artist. She attended an arts high school and later studied illustration at the European Institute of Design. After graduation, she pursued a career in children's publishing, illustrating books for U.S. and Italian publishing houses. She also has experience in advertising, animation, interactive book design, and has even created an album on modern art for children. When she isn't busy illustrating, Barbara loves spending time with her two kids, going to bookstores, and building her own illustrated books library.