Date
Wednesday
Apr

April 2

International Children’s Book Day

Get ready to ignite your child's imagination and love for reading on International Children's Book Day - with new adventures waiting on every page!

Yearly Date
April 2
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the wonderful world of children's literature on International Children's Book Day, which falls on April 2! This day was created by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) in 1967 to promote reading and bring attention to the importance of children's books. It also happens to be the birthday of beloved children's author Hans Christian Andersen. So why not take this opportunity to introduce a child in your life to a new book or revisit an old favorite? Let's spread the joy and magic of storytelling on this special day!

International Children’s Book Day Timeline

1967
Day Inception
International Children's Book Day was first established by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) to encourage children's reading habits.
1974
First Official Poster
The first official poster for International Children's Book Day was commissioned and distributed worldwide to promote the event.
1991
Theme Introduction
Beginning in 1991, IBBY introduced an annual theme for each International Children's Book Day to encourage diversity and inclusivity in children's literature.
2002
Global Celebrations Expansion
By 2002, celebrations for International Children's Book Day had expanded to over 75 countries globally, fostering a global love for children's literature.
2010
Digital Revolution Impact
The rise of digital reading platforms seen in the 2010s has led to more extensive accessibility and reach for International Children's Book Day.
2019
Record Participation
In 2019, a record number of children and schools across the globe participated in International Children's Book Day activities.

How to Celebrate International Children’s Book Day

1

Read a new children’s book

Visit your local library or bookstore and pick out a new children’s book to read. This will not only celebrate International Children’s Book Day, but also introduce you to a new world of imagination and creativity.

2

Donate books to a children’s organization

Spread the love of reading by donating books to a children’s organization, such as a local school or hospital. This will help promote literacy and bring joy to children who may not have access to many books.

3

Host a book swap party

Invite friends and family over for a book swap party! Everyone can bring their favorite children’s book to exchange with others, and you can have fun discussing your favorite stories and characters.

4

Create a book-themed craft

Get creative and make a book-themed craft, such as bookmarks, character puppets, or a diorama based on your favorite children’s book. This is a great way to celebrate the day while also exercising your imagination.

5

Attend a children’s book event

Check your local community calendar for any events celebrating International Children’s Book Day. This could include author readings, book fairs, or storytelling sessions. It’s a great way to connect with other book lovers and support the importance of children’s literature.

Why We Love International Children’s Book Day

A

It promotes literacy and imagination

Reading books is a great way to improve literacy skills and stimulate the imagination of children. International Children's Book Day celebrates the joy of reading and encourages children to pick up a book and explore different worlds and ideas through literature.

B

It exposes children to diverse perspectives

Children's books often tackle important themes and topics in an accessible way. By promoting diverse voices and perspectives, International Children's Book Day helps children learn about different cultures, experiences, and challenges that they may not encounter in their daily lives.

C

It brings families together

Reading books with family or caregivers can be a fun bonding experience for everyone involved. On International Children's Book Day, take some time to cuddle up with your little ones and enjoy a good story together - it's a great way to connect, relax, and create lasting memories.

International Children’s Book Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 1
Saturday
2024
Apr 1
Monday
2025
Apr 1
Tuesday
2026
Apr 1
Wednesday
2027
Apr 1
Thursday