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The Best Children’s Books To Celebrate National Read Across America Day 2020
(Forbes) – March 2 is National Read Across America Day, which encourages students of all ages—especially those without access to books and libraries—to read more. Luckily, there are organizations committed to this initiative year-round. For instance, the New York City-based Pajama Program promotes comforting bedtime routines for children facing adversity “so they can wake up rested and ready to thrive.” This involves providing them with pajamas and bedtime books.
Meanwhile, national nonprofit ParentChild+ supports school readiness by sending educators right to the toddler’s home. With a focus on refugees, immigrants and families in crisis, learning specialists are trained to educate both parent and child on how to engage in more read-aloud activities. “All primary caregivers must have the time, support and resources to read with their children,” says Sarah Walzer, CEO of ParentChild+. “It prepares children to walk into a classroom confident and ready, with the language skills and the ability to interact with others.”
Educators from ParentChild+ often remind caregivers of the things children love most in books: beautiful, vivid pictures, rhyming text, animals, children who look like them, and children whose lives are very different from theirs. Here are just some of their favorites, including classics and new reads that promote cultural awareness:
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle –
In this book, children are able to follow a growing, hungry caterpillar’s extensive meal through lively, colorful artwork, cleverly cut pages and a fun lesson in healthy eating into the bargain.
A wonderful interactive read, available in 65 different languages.
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña –
A lovely story of a grandmother and grandchild taking a weekly bus ride through the city and discussing the things they don’t have and the things they do.
Celebrates the wonder of grandparent-grandchild relationships.
I Love My Hair! by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley –
Keyana discovers the splendor, beauty and joy of her wonderful hair. A story that inspires pride and self-confidence and supports every child’s appreciation for who they are and where they come from.
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault –
Lively and engaging rhymes that children love to memorize and recite. Bold, bright pictures of the letters of the alphabet racing up a coconut tree. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom!
To read the full list online, please click here.
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