Read Across America Day

National Read Across America Day is a unique event that takes place each year on March 2nd. The purpose of this special day is to encourage children to read books. Some children naturally enjoy reading books while others may be a bit hesitant. The goal is to get kids of all reading levels to get excited about reading age-appropriate books. 

Each year, the event takes place on March 2nd because it is the birthday of Dr. Seuss, a notable author of children’s books. If you would like to celebrate this day with your children, there are several activities you can complete together. Some places might even host special events with a Dr. Seuss book theme to celebrate his birthday.

Try Reading Books Together as a Family

One fantastic way to celebrate Read Across America Day is to read a good book together. Choose a good book, sit in a quiet room together, and take turns reading pictures. Depending on your kids’ ages, you might even want to read one of many books that Dr. Seuss released over the years. 

Some great books by Dr. Seuss include The Cat in the Hat, Fox in Socks, and Green Eggs and Ham. Of course, you can read any of your favorites with the children. By reading together, you show your children that you enjoy reading a good book, and that will encourage them. It keeps the kids excited when you use enthusiastic voices while reading through the pages.

Which Books by Dr. Seuss Are Best to Read?

You may know that Dr. Seuss has penned dozens of high-rated books during his time as an author. However, some books are much more prominent than others. 

• The Cat in the Hat is one book to read with your children. Although it was initially written in 1957, it is a timeless classic that children can enjoy to this day. The Cat in the Hat visits a brother and sister while their mother is not home. He does mischievous things to keep the kids entertained while their pet fish objects to it all. It is the kind of book that will make your children laugh.
• If you are looking for a book with meaningful details, The Lorax is a great choice. The book touches on the subject of environmental destruction and what can happen when people do not take proper care of the Earth. Despite teaching about the environment, it is a fun and interesting read for children of all ages. 

I Am Not Going to Get Up Today is another excellent book by Dr. Seuss. It is about a boy who is too tired to do anything. No matter what they try, he refuses to get up! It is a silly book that is easy for children to comprehend

Activities to Celebrate

• All questions during the day must be asked in Rhyme
• Make a hat from “Cat in the Hat”
• Read Bartholomew and the Oobleck, then make Oobleck
• Make Green Eggs and Ham Chocolate Covered Pretzels (recipe below)

Check For Local Read Across America Events

Many places hold special events for Read Across America Day, including schools and libraries. If your children are homeschooled or currently doing virtual school, you may want to contact your local library to find out if they are doing anything special for this event. 

While the traditional events may be slightly different due to the pandemic, the library might offer virtual readings and other fun activities. The activities provided can encourage your children to read more books while learning about different authors and the stories they tell.

The Advantages of Celebrating Read Across America Day

Kids who enjoy reading are more likely to have a more extensive vocabulary than those who do not read books in their spare time. If you want to help your children learn how to read and recognize words, celebrating Read Across America Day is a great way to do it. 

You can use the memorable holiday as a way to get your kids excited about reading each day. Even after March 2nd, you may want to get in the habit of reading together as a family. You can take turns with your children when reading pages and chapters of each book.

Once you start reading with them daily, they will notice how good it makes them feel. Not only does it expand their vocabulary, but it can also help them relax and calm down after a long day! With Read Across America Day approaching, there has never been a better time to get some new books for you and your little ones to read.