CPD Celebrates World Read Aloud Day
World Read Aloud Day, an annual global event that celebrates the power of reading aloud to bring about community and individual empowerment, was recently observed. This year marked a special moment for education professionals and book lovers alike as various institutions and organizations participated in the festivities.
The event, founded by LitWorld, is celebrated in more than 173 countries, drawing millions of participants each year. It serves as a reminder of the importance of storytelling in connecting people across the globe. The celebration is sponsored by Scholastic, a renowned educational publisher, emphasizing the role of shared stories in fostering lifelong learning and community engagement.
This year’s celebration saw numerous educational institutions and literacy programs organizing read-aloud sessions. Teachers and educators read to students in schools, while parents and caregivers read to their children. The event not only strengthened bonds within families and communities but also promoted an enduring love for reading among young minds.
One of the highlights was the #WRADLIVE virtual read-a-thon, which brought together renowned authors and engaging activities. Adam Wallace and Peter H. Reynolds were among the notable authors who participated, reading their best-selling books. The event also featured interactive sessions with character voices and sound effects, courtesy of innovative educational tech tools like Novel Effect and QuiverVision. These tools helped make the experience more immersive and engaging for participants.
For parents and educators looking to celebrate World Read Aloud Day at home, several strategies were recommended. Firstly, choosing a book that celebrates and affirms the identities of students or children was emphasized. This approach not only fosters a love for reading but also promotes inclusivity and diversity in literature. Secondly, planned stops, thinking, and talking about the book were encouraged, making the experience more interactive and enriching. Lastly, bringing drama to the reading with expression and tone of voice was advised, especially when reading online.
Throughout the event, students were encouraged to participate actively by asking questions during the readings. A FlipGrid opportunity allowed classrooms to engage in real-time Q&A sessions with the authors, with the classroom asking the most questions winning a pizza party. The excitement was palpable as students and authors alike participated in making the event unforgettable.
How to Celebrate
The celebration extended beyond the virtual sessions. Parents and caregivers were urged to create opportunities for joyful and powerful read-aloud sessions at home. Here are three simple ways to celebrate World Read Aloud Day:
- Choose a book you and your children will love.
- Plan some places to stop, think, and talk about the book.
- Bring the drama to the reading by using expression and tone of voice.
By following these steps, families can create meaningful moments that not only enhance their reading experience but also enrich their relationships through shared storytelling.
