By: Maria Genovezos, Community Journalist
March is the season of renewal, and often said to be the doorstep to spring. Aside from March Madness and St. Patrick’s Day, Read Across America is a big event celebrated in schools and libraries, beginning on Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March 2.
Read Across America was organized in 1988 by the National Education Association. It is the largest celebration of reading, encouraging students, educators, caregivers, and parents to find more meaning in reading while building a community.
Read Across America’s overall theme for 2026 is “Create and Celebrate a Nation of Diverse Readers.” This theme caters to the beauty of how books can represent who people are and allow children to see themselves in the pages of their favorite book.
During the week of Read Across America, schools provide the opportunity for guest speakers, such as parents, to come in and read a book of their child’s choice. This opportunity provides more than establishing a connection with the students, but encourages the students to choose books that reflect their experiences, culture, or mirror their identity, values, and dreams, revealing a glimpse of themselves in a supportive environment.
As a parent of two girls, ages 9 and 4, reading has become an integral part of everyday life. My 9-year-old daughter was born with spina bifida, which is a condition that happens when the spine and spinal cord form improperly during a baby’s development.. When she was younger, it was important to read inclusive books representing her disability, to not only inform but also provide positive affirmations, build confidence, and provide a sense of belonging. Including books such as “I Have Spina Bifida, and It’s Okay,” by Dr. William M. Bauer, and “Our Diversity Makes Us Stronger,” by Elizabeth Cole.
On March 3, I had the opportunity to read to my 4-year-old daughter’s preschool class. At this age, children are developing a sense of self, becoming socially aware of others, and overall exploring their world. She chose the book “I Am Me, A Book of Authenticity,” by Susan Verde. This book explores the themes of identity, addressing individuality, uniqueness, and embracing yourself and others. Through this theme, my daughter was able to express her unique identity to her classmates and reveal a sense of confidence in who she is.
Reading offers valuable tools for children. Exposing them to literacy at a young age fosters cognitive development, empathy, compassion, improves vocabulary, and, most importantly, develops a sense of self. Self-discovery is a continuous journey, and reading is a form of self-exploration that can open chapters to new perspectives, regardless of age.
According to the World Literacy Foundation, parents play a crucial role in their children’s learning. Parents who cannot read or write can hinder their child’s academic process by struggling to assist with homework or to advocate for their educational needs. Literary skills are crucial for a child’s educational journey, and when these skills are held back it can hinder a child’s cognitive development.
Whether students are in preschool, elementary school, or high school, their choice of books can reflect on their character. The books we choose are a mirror of ourselves. Whether it’s sharing a favorite book during the week of Read Across America or a casual read, books lead to conversations that can challenge personal biases, shift perspectives, and create connections.
Read Across America is celebrated for one week, but the annual celebration can serve as a reminder that reading is enjoyable. Reading serves as a connection to experiences and emotions, reminding children and teenagers that they are seen, valued, and heard.
- A Haddonfield High School’s Art Show Highlights Women’s History and Artists
- Rowan University Event Shows How Gerrymandering Could Reshape Elections
- Student Edition: Highland High School Performs Heartfelt “Cinderella” Play
Follow South Jersey provides local journalism which highlights our diverse communities; fosters transparency through robust, localized, and vital reporting that holds leaders and institutions accountable; addresses critical information needs; supports people in navigating civic life; and equips people with the information necessary to partake in effective community engagement. If there is a story or event you think we should cover, please send your tips to news@followsouthjersey.com with “NEWS” in the subject line.
