Are you looking for World Book Day activity ideas, or perhaps World Book Day ideas for KS1 and KS2? We’ve done a round up of our favourite ideas that are easy and low-prep, covering all abilities.
World Book Day Classroom Activities
World Book Day is a great excuse to get off timetable and really celebrate a love of reading – which I believe is the cornerstone of ALL learning. Encouraging a love of reading really is essential, and as a class teacher I would sit and read my own book whilst my class were reading, to emphasise that reading is a life long pleasure. Here are our favourite World Book day activities and ideas, not just for World Book Day but for general fun book related learning!
We’ve got some great resources for World Book Day Activity ideas right here, including our World Book Day book review template create a big book of book reviews from the whole class so that children can read the thoughts of other children before they choose a book.
Children can also take part in a book scavenger hunt – this is so fun! Whilst they’re reading a book or listening to a story that you’re telling, ask them to tick off the things on the list that they see or hear about in the story.
World Book Day EYFS Resources
If you’re in EYFS, then a perfect way to cover World Book Day is with our EYFS World Book Day morning starters. These are a brilliant way to help children settle when they arrive in school.
The Masked Reader - World Book Day
With the success and popularity of the Masked Singer and Masked Dancer, capitalise on children’s interest with this Masked Reader activity – one available for both pupils and teachers. Read here all about the Masked Reader and how to set it up in your school.
World Book Day Colouring Sheets
Keep it simple with our World Book Day colouring sheets! Use these in your provision area in EYFS to help explain to children the meaning of World Book Day.
World Book Day Reading Challenge
Challenge children to complete their own “zine” or mini book as part of World Book Day with our World Book Day mini-book template.
Children can take part in a school-wide reading challenge, noting the book they read each day. If you’re looking for something a bit more free-flow, children can create their own zine/mini book just like the Brontes used to with our blank mini-book template. Can they write their own story and illustrate themselves, aimed at other children (writing for purpose).
World Book Day Character Masks
Children could also make their very own World Book Day masks about their favourite book characters using our book mask template.
World Book Day Word Hunt
Take part in a World Book Day word hunt – a brilliant whole school world book day idea.
Designing your own book cover for kids is also a fun activity for World Book day.
Gruffalo Crumble for World Book day
Make Gruffalo crumble like Mummy 2 Twindividuals.
- Jenny from The Gingerbread House said, “They could choose their favourite book and decorate the classroom door.”
- Lauren from Sophie’s Nursery said, “Take the first line of a group favourite book (e.g. a fairy tale or a Julia Donaldson story) and then ask the children to come up with their own endings. This could be adapted to age so they can either write the ending, act it out, draw it, talk about it etc.”
- Josie from Me, Them and the Others said, ” I’ve done messy play with porridge oats and a Goldilocks theme and made gingerbread play dough for a “Cant catch me I’m the gingerbread man” theme.
- Kirsty from The Moneysaving Mum said, “They could all dress up as various different characters of a book 🤷🏻♀️ and act a scene out? Or just act a scene without getting dressed up and someone else has to guess the book 🙂 that sounds easier (& cheaper!)
World Book Day Bookmarks
World Book Day bookmarks! We have loads to choose from – take a look at our printable bookmarks for kids here.
Make a BFG Dream Jar from Red Kite Days.
Make origami book marks! From our friends at Red Ted Art.
Frequenting Asked Questions About World Book Day
1. Are there any suggestions for World Book Day activities specifically tailored for older children or teenagers? Suggestions for older children might include hosting a book-themed trivia contest, organising a book-themed escape room challenge, or arranging author talks or book signings.
2. How can the activities be adapted for children with SEND? To adapt activities for children with SEND, consider incorporating sensory elements, providing alternative formats for reading such as audiobooks or tactile books, and ensuring accessibility in all aspects of the activity.
3. Are there any recommendations for incorporating technology or digital resources into the World Book Day activities?Incorporating technology can involve activities such as creating digital book trailers, participating in virtual author visits or book clubs, or using interactive storytelling apps or websites.
4. Can the suggested activities be easily implemented? Preparation is key, and not leaving everything to the last minute! To implement activities in a classroom setting, consider incorporating them into the curriculum, providing ample time for reading and discussion, and offering incentives or rewards for participation. Teachers can also enhance engagement by creating a supportive and inclusive environment where your pupils feel encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas.
5. Are there any ideas for involving parents or caregivers in celebrating World Book Day at home or in the community? Involving parents or caregivers can be done through activities such as hosting a family reading night, organising a community book swap or book fund raiser, or inviting parents to volunteer as guest readers in classrooms or libraries. Additionally, encouraging families to share their favourite books or reading traditions can foster a sense of community and appreciation for reading and books.
