Today is National Read Across America Day! A day dedicated to enjoying a good book and spreading the love of reading nationwide. According to Scholastic, children learn an average of 4,000 to 12,000 new words every year just from reading.
With all the benefits that reading brings, the National Education Association (NEA) founded Read Across America in 1998 to help motivate children and teens to read. Now, this annual holiday has even expanded into a year-round program to provide resources for all communities.
Check out some of the ways you can celebrate reading today and all year long:
Visit your local public library
Support your local library by becoming a member! Check out your local public library for celebrations, reading recommendations, book clubs, group activities, and more. You can search for libraries in your area here.
Start a new book
Take a trip to your local book store or borrow a book from a friend to start your next reading adventure. You can also visit the NEA website for resources on where to find books for free or at highly discounted prices. Check out their website here for book lists, reading tips, and reading activities.
Create your own bookmarks
Combine your love of reading with a love for crafts. Download and design your own bookmark masterpiece with our free Color & Cut Bookmarks. It'll keep your place in your book and look great while doing it!
Throw a book party
Pick your family's favorite book and throw a party! Spend timing reading together and have some fun with the genre for a party theme. Serve green eggs and ham, make your own magic wands, or dress up as your favorite characters. It's a great way to bring the family together and bond over your favorite stories.