Does your child dread the school gates? You're not alone. Meet Lily. Her tummy feels funny. Her heart is beating fast. Today is her first day at big school, and everything feels scary and new. The corridors seem endless. The other children are strangers. And Mum won't be there.

If you've heard "I don't want to go to school," you know how heartbreaking it can be. You want to protect your child from their fear, but you also know they need to take this brave step. You're caught between compassion and the knowledge that school transitions are essential-and that your child is capable of more than they believe.

This is where I Don't Want to Go to School, Mum comes in. Through Lily's journey, your child will discover that nervous feelings are completely normal, that new beginnings are challenging for everyone, and that they're braver than they think. Watch as Lily navigates her first day, makes unexpected friends, finds her courage in small moments, and learns that each new day brings new possibilities.

This heartwarming picture book validates your child's fears whilst gently encouraging them to take that brave first step. It's not about erasing anxiety-it's about moving forward despite it.

What Your Child Will Learn: Nervous feelings are normal and manageable, not a sign of weaknessEveryone feels scared sometimes, even the people we admireBeing brave doesn't mean not being scared; it means trying anywayNew experiences get easier with time and practiceThey have more courage inside them than they realise

For Parents and Caregivers: Beyond the story, this book includes a dedicated parent guidance section with 8 practical, evidence-based strategies for: Supporting school transitions without adding pressureManaging separation anxiety in healthy waysBuilding genuine confidence (not false reassurance)Creating positive routines that ease the transitionCommunicating effectively with teachersRecognising the difference between normal nervousness and anxiety that needs additional supportValidating your child's feelings whilst encouraging growth

You'll find yourself returning to this section again and again-it's designed to support you through this transition, not just your child.

Perfect for Ages 5-8 Whether your child is starting school for the first time, transitioning to a new school, or struggling with ongoing school anxiety, this book meets them where they are. The illustrations are warm and engaging, the language is age-appropriate, and the emotional truth is unmistakable.

Part of the Growing Brave Series Each book in this series tackles a different childhood fear or anxiety with the same warmth, validation, and practical guidance.

A Gentle Reminder Transitions are hard. Your child's fear is real. Your worry about whether you're handling it "right" is valid. But here's what this book will help you both discover: your child is braver than they know, and you're doing better than you think.

Sometimes all children need is a story that says, "I understand how you feel, and I believe in you anyway."

This is that story.

Start the conversation about courage, growth, and the beautiful bravery it takes to try something new. Growing Brave Series: Helping children navigate big feelings and new experiences, one story at a time