Gather your friends and family around, for it is that time of year again. National Read to Me Day is Wednesday, March 19. This day encourages anyone to grab a book, a younger sibling, or a grandparent, and read a story together.

Caregivers are also encouraged to grab a book and read to the people they care for. Take this opportunity to connect, inspire, and create cherished moments through the power of reading together.

National Read to Me Day also highlights the significance of shared reading, Allowing everyone to build strong literacy skills, and strengthening the bond between readers and listeners. Reading out loud to children from an early age helps build their language skills as well as help with developmental and cognitive growth.

A 2019 study by Ohio State University states that reading to children also helps them develop a broader vocabulary, along with better comprehension skills. It also helps build interest in learning. Reading stories aloud to children also helps their imagination, creativity, and emotional intelligence.

When adults read to children they are shown new ideas, cultures, and experiences, which helps them understand the world around them. Along with these, reading or storytelling can be a comforting experience, and enjoyable for creating a positive association with books, and learning.

Here is how you can celebrate this national day, whether you are at home, school, or out in the community. You can read to a younger sibling, student, or even neighbors. Have the kids or persons you are reading to pick the story. Visiting your local library where they have a massive selection of books and areas you can sit in and read there as well. Who would you like to read to today? Are they too far away? With video chat that will work just as well.

If you need help getting books to read, then the local library is the best place. Do you need any ideas on what books to read? Need some help finding some books? You can always ask your librarian for help. The library may have the perfect story for you.

Celebrating National Read to Me Day is a shared experience for all ages. Taking the time to read out loud helps strengthen and nurture a child’s love for books and learning. Now is the time to find a cozy spot, pick up a book, and celebrate National Read to Me Day by sharing the magic of storytelling!