This year (2024) World Book Day is on the 7th March with the theme “read your way”. We know that having access to lots of books and being encouraged to read is a really good predictor of a child’s future success, so it makes complete sense to encourage a love of reading from an early age. Even a few minutes a day can make a huge difference. Here at Mrs Mactivity, we’re huge advocates of the benefits of reading, and we love making a whole host of World Book Day resources each year to bring reading, and learning to life. With this year being no exception.
Ideas for World Book Day
It can be tricky coming up with new ideas for World Book Day each year, but don’t fear, we’ve got you covered! We have a whole range of ideas that you can do either as a school, or as a class, to ensure that everyone takes part and has fun. You can also check out our World Book Day costume ideas, if you’re looking for outfit inspiration.
World Book Day The Masked Reader
World Book Day Mindfulness Colouring
On what can be quite a hectic day, there’s always time for a bit of down time so that children can reflect on what reading means to them. Use our World Book Day Mindfulness Colouring pages to bring a little zen to your classroom at the end of a busy day.
World Book Day Character Masks
Encourage children to think about their favourite book character with our World Book Day Character Masks. Be it Peter Rabbit, Horrid Henry, Matilda, or Fantastic Mr Fox, these mask templates are really easy for children to put their own mark on. Once the masks are created, encourage children to work in groups to put on a play or performance to show the rest of the class.
World Book Day Mini-books
Sometimes children just want to write a story without being told to use lots of adjectives, powerful verbs, correct spelling and grammar – just for the fun of it! Our World Book Day mini-books can be used in lots of different ways and contains prompts to scaffold children’s writing if needed. Great for creating a class library, and is just what the Brontes used to do!
You could develop this further by asking children to design a book cover – perhaps have a competition to see who comes up with the most exciting design! Or have a theme, for example animals, or space, so that children have a starting point.
In summary, on World Book Day, teachers can engage pupils with a range of exciting activities. From organising book character costume contests and World Book Day-themed crafts to hosting interactive storytelling sessions and book-related games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Pupils can participate in reading challenges and author study activities, while classrooms can be decorated with creative displays inspired by beloved books. Book-themed lessons provide educational opportunities, and literacy events such as book swaps and reading events foster a love for reading among pupils. Writing prompts drawn from favourite books spark creativity, and book-based scavenger hunts offer adventurous learning experiences. To top it off, dramatic readings of favourite stories bring the magic of books to life in the classroom.
