Do you know what is celebrated around the world tomorrow, February 1st?  It’s not the birthday of a famous person, it’s not the anniversary of a special event, but it is a day that honors a wonderful practice that I’m sure all of us have enjoyed throughout our lives.

On February 1st, World Read Aloud Day is celebrated. Maybe you knew that or maybe you just learned something new. In any case, let’s take a minute to consider the power of read alouds. Can you remember someone who read to you?  Can you remember a read-aloud that touched your heart or changed your thinking? Can you remember anticipating storytime when you were young? I’m going to bet you anwered “yes” to one or more of those questions. In my opinion, that’s the point of Read Aloud Day–to remember the positive effects of reading aloud and to replicate them for our youth.

Do you want your young reader to experience the power and possibility inherent in a read-aloud?

Do you want to instill a love of reading in your child?

Do you want to bond with your youngster in a unique way and open the door to rich discussions and meaningful conversations?

Do you want to enhance your child’s comprehension skills, vocabulary and fluency in an authentic and enjoyable manner?

Do you have a treasure trove of favorite books, poetry, short stories or articles you long to share?

I could go on and on highlighting the power of read-alouds. There is no downside to this practice and there is no one too old to enjoy it. So what are you waiting for? Today, choose a text you love and want to read aloud to your child (or whole family). You’ll be all set to celebrate World Read Aloud Day. What a great reason to begin reading together on a regular basis.

Will you help?  Please share a favorite text or read-aloud experience to encourage and support other people. Here’s mine…

For Ages 8 to 10:  Testing the Ice by Sharon Robinson: Readers get to see a different side of Jackie Robinson in this picture book written by his daughter. Be sure to discuss the literal and figurative ways that Jackie Robinson “tested the ice” after reading the  story.

For Ages 11-14:  The Last Days of Mrs. Bixby by John David Anderson:  Full disclosure – I’m only on page 51, but I can already see that the voice and humor in this book about a special teacher, would be very enjoyable to kids this age and I’m sure it will have a poignant ending that I’ll long remember. I’m recommending this in the hopes that if you read the first chapter aloud, your kids will grab the book and keep on going.

Check back tomorrow when I’ll celebrate World Read Aloud Day by offering a few tips to remember about reading aloud.