Today, 7th March, is World Book Day. It is a day full of costumes, fun and reading! World Book Day is an annual celebration of authors, illustrators, books, and the joy of reading.
Dressing up is a special part of the World Book Day celebration and it is an effective way to encourage children to engage with reading. It can help children to express their personal reading choices and share reading recommendations. However, the day can be celebrated in or out of costume and it is important children feel included and are encouraged to read for pleasure.
Why celebrate World Book Day?
Whilst dressing up is fun, the main aim of the day is to encourage children to explore different genres and develop a passion for reading. The day also provides an opportunity for children who may not have any books at home, to own their very first book. £1 book tokens are distributed through schools, early years settings and a range of children’s magazines. World Book Day are also working with McDonald’s to include the £1 token with their happy meals. Children can swap their £1 token for any of the £1 books or get £1 off a full price title, any full price book or audiobook at participating booksellers, enabling every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own.
Why is reading so important?
Reading for pleasure is thought to be the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success, more than their family circumstances, their parents educational background or their income. World Book Day want to see more children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, with a life-long habit of reading for pleasure and the improved life chances this brings them.
Evidence shows there are 6 building elements which support a child to read for pleasure:
1. Being read to regularly
2. Having books at home and school
3. Having a choice in what to read
4. Finding time to read
5. Having trusted help to find a book
6. Making reading fun!
World Book Day is an important, full-filled day that can have a massive impact on so many children’s lives. We would love to see all your World Book Day costumes, let us know how you will be dressing up and celebrating!
