National Children’s Picture Book Day – April 2, 2021
When we think of childhood nostalgia at National Today, we are instantly taken back to our picture book reading days, and what better occasion to reminisce on those times than on National Children’s Picture Book Day on April 2? We have flown on the backs of scaly dragons, covered great lengths on conquests with wizards and witches, and eaten walls and doors made out of candy and gingerbread. They have taught us valuable lessons and, most importantly, we have had fun adventures whilst sitting with a picture book open on our laps. A wise person once said that books open the mind and heart to endless possibilities, and it is quite true. Did you know that one of the reasons that National Children’s Picture Book Day is celebrated on April 2 is because renowned fairytale writer Hans Christian Anderson’s birthday also falls on the same day?
History of National Children’s Picture Book Day
“Peter Rabbit,” “Where the Wild Things Are,” and “The Cat in the Hat” are just some of the classic children’s books that instantly come to mind when we think of National Children’s Picture Book Day. While we’re on this nostalgic journey, let’s also take a quick trip down memory lane to find out how exactly this celebrated day came to be.
First founded and celebrated in 1967, National Children’s Picture Book Day has its roots in Switzerland’s International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). Jella Lepman, IBBY’s founder, was a German journalist and author. She established IBBY in 1953 along with other members. The organization aimed to bring about love and interest for the written word in children. In 1967, IBBY’s goal was fulfilled as National Children’s Picture Book Day came into existence.
Another of IBBY’s goals was to also have the day celebrated everywhere else in the world. Each year, a different country is chosen to commemorate the occasion. The host country then decides on a theme and an illustrator creates a poster using elements from said theme. From writing-, reading-, and drawing competitions to doling out book awards, the day is celebrated with full fanfare and energy.
Of course, you don’t need to be residing in the host country to be able to celebrate the day. You can honor the day yourself by planning reading activities with the children in your life or reminiscing on bygone times by indulging in picture books yourself. Reading picture books (or books, for that matter) stimulates the brain and strengthens vocabulary, amongst many other benefits.
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