Read Across America Day is an observance celebrated on March 2 of each year. It got National attention and was first celebrated as a National Holiday in 1998. The decision to make March 2 the observance date is because this is the birthday of Dr. Seuss, a beloved children’s author. The National Education Association suggested that this would attract young readers and improve the education system in the United States. Although this day was intended to motivate children to read more, we can’t leave out the adults. Here are some fun things to do for both generations:
Plan a reading event – You can plan this at the local library, a park, your own home, etc. Attendees can bring their own favorite books, or if the event is at the library, they can pick up books on the spot. You may even consider having a few books available from your own library. Discuss plots, enjoy the day and don’t forget the snacks and drinks.
Give books away – If your children are grown and you don’t need those story books anymore consider donating them to an orphanage, a library, a school or any other children you know can use them. Especially if they are Dr. Seuss books. Can you imagine the excitement on those kids faces?
Volunteer to read at a nursing home – This is often a place of solitude, where folks can’t read as well anymore or can’t see to read for themselves. Some of them don’t even have any family left. So, if you want something to do this will bless you and them as well. You can read to an individual (separately), or plan a small group and read the newspaper for them, or anything else that interests them. Check with the staff first so that they can direct you to the people in need.
Read to the orphans – Visit an orphanage and find out if you could come and read to those children. More likely they will say yes. You could also visit a children’s hospital and surprise them with a few books or take the time to read to them. You never know, this may just become your weekly run.
Build a book – I agree, you have to be a little crafty to do this, but not really. Mainly, fold a few paper sheets in half and staple at the fold. You can use a thicker paper for the cover, maybe a card stock. Let them come up with a title for their story. Now each child can write their own story on the empty paper inside. After all stories are written each child can read their story to the group. You can do this with your own children or in a group of friends.
This article gives you a few ideas on how to celebrate Read Across America Day, but don’t stop here. Let your imagination bring out the best in you as a reader.
http://www.nea.org/grants/886.htm
