INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Read to Me Day

On this day, we celebrate the joy of reading aloud and its impact on literacy.

MAR19
Friday, March 19Every year on March 19
 days to go
Roots
Created by the Child Writes Foundation; first observed in 2017
Vibe
A day to connect through stories and imagination.
Hashtag
#InternationalReadToMeDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Read aloud together

Pick a favorite book and read it out loud with your family.

WITH FRIENDS

Swap read-alouds

Take turns reading passages and share your favorite childhood books.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Volunteer to read

Read to a classroom, library group or younger students.

Plan ahead

International Read to Me Day is observed on March 19 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Thu, Mar 19this year
2027Fri, Mar 19
2028Sun, Mar 19
2029Mon, Mar 19
2030Tue, Mar 19
2031Wed, Mar 19
2032Fri, Mar 19
2033Sat, Mar 19
2034Sun, Mar 19
2035Mon, Mar 19
2036Wed, Mar 19

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Studies show reading aloud boosts vocabulary.
Children who are read to regularly score higher on literacy tests.

The story

International Read to Me Day, celebrated on March 19, was created by the Child Writes Foundation to emphasize the significance of reading aloud to children. This day serves as a reminder that storytelling can ignite curiosity, enhance emotional connections, and foster a love for books that lasts a lifetime. Reading together offers a unique opportunity to bond and share experiences, making stories come alive in ways that solitary reading cannot.

Read the full story

The act of reading aloud has profound effects on a child's development. It not only enhances language skills but also nurtures imagination and critical thinking. When adults read to children, they help build a strong foundation for future learning and literacy. This day encourages families to set aside time for reading and to explore various genres that captivate young minds.

In schools and communities, International Read to Me Day promotes events that encourage participation from all age groups. Libraries often host special read-aloud sessions, where local authors and volunteers share their favorite stories. These events create a community bond over the shared love of storytelling and inspire a culture of reading.

As we celebrate this day, let us remember that reading aloud is a gift we can give to children of all ages. It opens doors to new worlds and ideas, encouraging empathy and understanding through diverse narratives. Whether at home, in schools, or in community gatherings, the simple act of reading together can transform lives and create lasting memories.

Keep the party going

See the calendar
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"Can't Wait to Celebrate" children's book"Can't Wait to Celebrate" children's bookA picture book for little celebrators.
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