- Categories:
- Fun
- Tags:
- BooksChildrenEducational
- Where:
- International
- Date change rule:
- Every March 19
- Holiday emoji:
- 📚
International Read To Me Day lights up the calendar every March 19, championing the profound impact of reading aloud to children. This simple yet powerful activity sparks imagination, expands vocabulary, and builds a strong foundation for literacy. Share your favorite stories, visit your local library, and inspire young minds to explore the magic of books.
Want to sponsor International Read To Me Day? Learn how
Expected International Read To Me Day Deals
As International Read To Me Day approaches, families can anticipate a range of promotions designed to encourage reading. While we await official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that retailers like Barnes & Noble and Half Price Books often feature discounts on children’s literature and read-aloud collections. Online platforms such as Amazon and Bookshop.org may offer special bundles or free shipping on kid-friendly titles. Educational toy stores like Lakeshore Learning Materials and Melissa & Doug could highlight reading-related games and puppets. Even subscription boxes like Literati Kids or Highlights Library might run special sign-up offers. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as March 19 approaches.
Platform Guide for International Read To Me Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #ReadToMeDay. Share photos or short videos of your family’s favorite read-aloud moments, showcasing diverse books and cozy reading nooks.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #ReadToMeDay. Create short, engaging videos reviewing children’s books, demonstrating expressive reading techniques, or sharing tips for making story time fun.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #ReadToMeDay. Share community events, virtual story times, or discussions about the benefits of reading aloud in parenting groups.
International Read To Me Day Hero
Mem Fox
History of International Read To Me Day
International Read to Me Day is an occasion that aims to spread a message regarding the importance of reading to children. However, the day also promotes writers, the love for reading, as well as the message of promoting literacy and education across the globe. The day was originally created by the Child Writes Foundation as an attempt to encourage an increase in adult literacy.
Reading to children is important for this goal because according to a report, reading out to children in elementary school can actually lead to an increase in the love for reading. In fact, 40% of frequent readers ages six to 10 were read out loud at home. Literacy’s link to reading can be traced down to history as people became more educated once the written word was formed – the use of speaking out these words followed.
In the 4th Millennium B.C., messages were written using pictures. In fact, those who knew the art of writing and reading in 3500 B.C. would often hold public performances. The love for reading expanded when books originated in Rome in 23 B.C. Unfortunately, books were rare and expensive during this time, and only a select few had access to them. After the development of the printing press in the 15th century, books became accessible to the masses. And thus, with access to reading, came a rise in the literacy rate. The link between literacy and reading also became evident during the Industrial Revolution as the cost of books fell drastically. In the 1920s, literacy rates reached 70% in some parts of the U.S.
International Read To Me Day timeline
The printing of books starts in China.
The world's oldest library is established in Egypt.
The world's first traveling library is launched by British philanthropist George Moore.
Aldo Manuzio launches the Aldine Press in Venice.
How Businesses Can Celebrate International Read To Me Day
Local businesses can champion International Read To Me Day by hosting special story time events for children in their communities. Bookstores can offer discounts on children’s titles and feature local authors. Coffee shops might create cozy reading corners, while libraries can organize read-aloud marathons with guest readers. Schools and daycare centers can dedicate the day to special reading activities, inviting parents or community members to share their favorite books. Consider partnering with local literacy initiatives to collect book donations or host a book swap.
International Read To Me Day FAQs
When is International Read To Me Day?
In 2027, International Read To Me Day will be observed on Friday, March 19. This end-of-week timing offers a wonderful chance to kick off the weekend with engaging read-aloud sessions.
What is the global literacy rate for children?
While specific child literacy rates vary by region, UNICEF reports that millions of children globally are still not achieving minimum proficiency levels in reading. International Read To Me Day aims to address this by emphasizing foundational reading skills from a young age.
How much time should I spend reading to my child?
The key is consistency and enjoyment, rather than a strict time limit. Even 10 minutes of engaging read-aloud time daily can make a profound difference in a child’s development, building a strong bond and a positive association with books.
What are the benefits of reading aloud to children?
Beyond academic gains, reading aloud strengthens emotional bonds between parent and child, sparks imagination, and introduces complex concepts in an accessible way. It’s a foundational activity for both literacy and emotional intelligence.
International Read To Me Day Activities
Host a book reading in a library
To celebrate the day in its true spirit, host a book reading day at a library for children. Here, people of all ages can volunteer to read different books to children for a few hours.
Read to a child
Are you a parent or have a young one in your family? Well, this is the day you can get close to them! Pick out your favorite book and read to the children for 20 minutes. Ask them questions later to tickle their imagination.
Spread awareness
Use this day to spread awareness regarding the several benefits of reading to a child. You can start by posting on social media, or host a webinar that explains all the advantages.
5 Interesting Facts About Reading
Words learned by children
Between 4,000 to 12,000 words per year can be learned through reading.
Reducing stress through reading
68% of your stress is reduced if you read six minutes a day.
An avid reader
President Theodore Roosevelt read one book a day.
The country that reads the most
The average Indian reads 10.7 hours per week.
Feeling less lonely
According to 19% of readers, reading decreases feelings of loneliness.
Why We Love International Read To Me Day
It encourages adults to read to children
The day is essential as it encourages adults across the globe to read books to their young ones. This is important since reading out loud to children actually has an impact on the literacy rate.
It spreads education
The day and the message behind it are crucial since it helps spread the idea of educating children from a young age. We love the day because it makes the world smarter and happier!
It strengthens bonds
Imagine reading to your child every day for 20 minutes or so without any distractions from the outside world. This activity will help build your bond with your child and develop trust and love.
Social Media Tips for International Read To Me Day
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