What are the National Read Aloud Days?

The National Read Aloud Days, celebrated annually in the Netherlands during the last week of January, focus on encouraging parents, caregivers, and educators to read aloud to children aged 0 to 6. This initiative highlights the value of reading aloud in early childhood, emphasizing its impact on language development, vocabulary expansion, and fostering a love for books.

Reading aloud is more than just an educational activity; it is also a way to bond with children and inspire their imagination.

History and Origin

The National Read Aloud Days were established in 2003 by the Stichting Lezen (Reading Foundation) and are organized by the Dutch Foundation for Collective Promotion of Books (CPNB). The campaign was created to promote the importance of reading aloud to young children, particularly those who cannot yet read independently.

The event traditionally begins with the National Read Aloud Breakfast, where public figures, educators, and librarians read stories to children. This event symbolizes the joy and importance of reading together and sets the tone for the week.

Who Participates in the National Read Aloud Days?

• Libraries: Host storytelling sessions, workshops, and interactive activities to engage young readers and their families.
• Schools and Daycare Centers: Include read-aloud sessions in their programs, often inviting guest readers to create memorable experiences for children.
• Bookstores: Offer discounts and promotions on children’s books, encouraging families to invest in a home library.
• Parents and Caregivers: Participate by reading aloud to their children daily and attending community events.
• Public Figures: Inspire families by reading aloud at the National Read Aloud Breakfast and promoting the importance of literacy.

Themes and Slogans

The National Read Aloud Days revolve around the theme of creating meaningful connections through storytelling. Reading aloud enhances emotional, linguistic, and cognitive development, making it a cornerstone of early education.

The slogan “Reading Aloud Comes First” underscores the campaign’s message that storytelling should be a priority for young children’s growth.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors:

• Bright Primary Colors: Red, yellow, and blue reflect the playful and engaging nature of storytelling for young audiences.
• Green: Symbolizing growth, learning, and imagination sparked by reading aloud.
• White: Representing simplicity, innocence, and the joy of shared stories.

Symbols:

• Books and Story Clouds: Representing the imaginative worlds that stories create.
• Happy Children Listening: Illustrating the joy and engagement sparked by read-aloud sessions.
• Parents and Teachers Reading Aloud: Depicting the interactive and nurturing aspect of storytelling.

Patterns:

• Playful Illustrations: Featuring whimsical designs, such as stars, polka dots, and doodles, to captivate children’s attention.
• Book Motifs: Open books, bookmarks, and storytelling themes reinforce the focus on reading aloud.
• Interactive Elements: Patterns that encourage children to imagine and engage with the story.

How to Participate in the National Read Aloud Days

• Visit the Library: Attend organized storytelling sessions, workshops, or themed events that make reading fun.
• Read Aloud Daily: Create a ritual of reading aloud at home, choosing books that match your child’s interests and developmental stage.
• Explore Bookstores: Support local bookshops by purchasing books specifically designed for reading aloud.
• Share Your Moments: Post photos or videos of your storytelling sessions using hashtags like #ReadAloudDays to inspire others.
• Organize a Story Event: Plan a storytelling gathering in your community or among friends and family to celebrate the joy of reading aloud.

Most Used Hashtags

• #NationalReadAloudDays
• #ReadingAloud
• #Storytime
• #ChildrensBooks
• #FamilyReading

Why are the National Read Aloud Days Important?

The National Read Aloud Days highlight the transformative power of storytelling in early childhood. Research shows that reading aloud improves language skills, strengthens parent-child bonds, and fosters curiosity and creativity. This campaign ensures that children from all backgrounds experience the joy and educational benefits of being read to.

By celebrating the importance of reading aloud, the event promotes literacy, bridges educational gaps, and creates lasting memories between adults and children.