Read Across America Day is a nationwide celebration of reading held each year on March 2. It encourages children of all ages to discover the joy of books and build lifelong literacy habits. While it began as a single-day event, it has grown into a broader reading celebration that lasts all year long.

Today’s lesson explores not only the excitement of reading but also the history behind this special day and why it continues to matter. You’ll find engaging videos, interactive tools, projects, and printable resources organized by grade band to help your family celebrate in meaningful ways.

The History of Read Across America Day

Read Across America was launched in 1998 by the National Education Association (NEA) as a nationwide initiative to promote literacy and encourage children to read. March 2 was originally chosen because it is the birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, whose books introduced generations of children to playful language and imaginative storytelling.

Over time, the celebration has evolved. Today, Read Across America focuses on:

• Encouraging diverse and inclusive books

• Promoting literacy equity

• Inspiring communities to support young readers

• Expanding reading celebrations beyond one day into year-round engagement

  
  

The NEA now highlights a wide range of authors and stories that reflect many backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, helping children see themselves — and others — in the pages of books.

You can explore the official initiative here: National Education Association – Read Across

America https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/read-across-america This page explains the origins of the celebration and provides book recommendations and free printable materials.

Educational Literacy Resources

Storyline Online

https://www.storylineonline.net/ Free streaming videos of actors reading children’s books aloud. Each video includes lesson guides and activity ideas.

PBS Reading and Literacy Resources

https://idahoptv.pbslearningmedia.org/subjects/english-language-arts-and-literacy/?rank_by=recency Free literacy videos and mini-lessons organized by grade level.

Get Epic!

Don’t forget; Braintree students have access to Get Epic through their Schoology Homeroom resources. This digital library offers thousands of engaging books for all reading levels, making it easy to find something your child will love.

Whether it’s a cozy read-aloud on the couch, siblings taking turns reading to each other, or quiet independent reading time, every page counts! Let’s make March 2nd a day filled with stories, imagination, and connection. We can’t wait to hear what your family is reading!

International Children’s Digital Library

http://en.childrenslibrary.org/ A free online collection of children’s books from around the world in multiple languages.

Storybook Character Chat

Invite your family to step into the magical world of books—together! In Storybook Character Chat, learners and their grown-ups can interview their favorite storybook characters, sparking meaningful conversations and shared imagination. This playful, standards-aligned activity helps students explore character, setting, problem, and solution while building creativity, comprehension, and connection as a family. Storybook Character Chat

Parent Note: This experience uses an AI-powered chat. We recommend that a parent or guardian guides the activity, helps monitor responses, and supports thoughtful, safe interactions along the way.