It is officially the first day of National Reading Month, and the fun begins March 2nd with Read Across America Day in honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday, one of the most beloved children’s book authors of all time who created classic tales such as “The Cat in the Hat,” “Fox in Socks,” “Green Eggs and Ham” and“One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.”
6 books by Dr. Seuss rank among the top 20 bestselling children’s books of all time
This month, the nationwide goal is to create awareness of the importance of carving out reading time. For our youngest readers, the idea of reading for joy must be reinforced more often in the face of handheld electronic devices that provide passive entertainment versus the active imagination and escapism boost that comes with reading a book. Reading helps children understand emotions and develop empathy for others as they follow characters through their stories. While we process so much information digitally and in quick bursts, it is easy to see why there is concern about our capacity to form insight and empathy.
How can you help showcase reading as a fun and interactive activity for the children and teens in your life?
Consider these 6 activities to promote reading this Read Across America Day, Reading Month, and all year round!
Make a Date with a Book
Your students are never alone with a good book. Celebrate this month by having them take their favorite book on a date. Whether it be a picnic in the park or to the beach, promote reading at home by encouraging parents to bring their kids somewhere fun where they can sit down and read their favorite book. Encourage parents to take pictures and students to write a journal entry about their date.
Have a Birthday Party for Dr. Seuss
What’s more celebratory than a birthday party? Gather your students for a fun Dr. Seuss-themed day with themed snacks like green eggs and ham or butter-side down toast. Encourage students to take turns reading their favorite Dr. Seuss books while their classmates munch away.
Look for Treasures in a Book Scavenger Hunt
Generate excitement about books and reading with a book scavenger hunt. Go to your school library and have students look for five titles that best represent them. These stories should encourage them to reflect on their own culture and help to build identity. Provide specific criteria to help students narrow their search, such as books about families, friends, sports, holidays, etc.
Try Reading Rewards
Who doesn’t love prizes and rewards for good work? Be sure to acknowledge your student’s reading accomplishments by offering incentives such as a pizza party, certificates and awards, a day of class outside, or anything else your students would enjoy!
Start a Neighborhood Library
Bring your community together by starting a Little Free Library. Work with students, parents, and community groups to develop an action plan to open a Little Free Library in your neighborhood. Whether you purchase a library box or build your own, celebrate the grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and story time.
Create Your Own Book
Have your students create their own character based on who they are. Encourage them to build out a story by providing a prebuilt book with words missing for them to fill in the blanks. Make sure to include spaces for them to create illustrations that bring the story to life. Once complete, have them take the books home with them to read to their parents.
While roughly 79% of Americans can read, less than 53% actually read for pleasure. Our reading culture is slowly dwindling. National Reading Month is here to help revive our reading habits and bring joy through books and stories.
IMSE is offering 20% off digital and printable classroom products this Reading Month as a gift to our loyal customers!
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