We all have our favorite books from childhood, ones that set the tone for our imaginations and that bring back memories — and feelings of comfort– of home when we remember them. International Children’s Book Day celebrates that nostalgia and aims to inspire young imaginations across the globe. Quarantine is a great opportunity to share your favorite childhood books and bring out your kids’ current favorites, too. So get ready for a day of literary-inspired fun at home!
We know that staying home during COVID19 can be a challenge. Therefore, each day schools are closed, (cool) progeny will offer easy activities to keep the the whole family engaged. If you try any of these activities, post pictures to Facebook and Instagram and tag us (#coolprogeny and @coolprogeny). After all, we’re all in this together!
You can download a PDF of these ideas here.
Did you miss a day? No worries! You can view all of our (cool) fun at home ideas here.
Cool Fun at Home: International Children’s Book Day
EXPLORE OUTSIDE
Outside Story Adventure
There is probably a favorite children’s book that consistently reappears at bedtime. Grab that favorite book and create an outdoor storyscape! Fancy Nancy lovers: unleash that inner diva and have a fashion show on the sidewalk or driveway. Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site fans: grab the toy trucks and create an imaginary construction site. Don’t want to bring the toys out? Create the setting on the sidewalk in chalk!
LEARN
Who Is Hans Christian Andersen?
International Children’s Book Day has been celebrated around Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday (April 2) since 1967! You and your children probably know some of Andersen’s famous Fairy Tales likes The Little Mermaid, The Princess and the Pea, or The Ugly Duckling. You can watch “The Princess and the Pea” with Socratica Kids.
CREATIVITY CHALLENGE
Tissue Paper Collage Art
Everyone loves Eric Carle’s books filled with his beautiful collage art. Little kids will love making this “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” handprint art. Older artists can try imitating his iconic collage art style! Learn how he paints tissue and then try a collage project.
MOVE
Go On A Shape and Texture Scavenger Hunt
Scour your house for shapes and textures with the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art! Then turn those objects into textured papers to use in a future art project.
Yoga Fun for Kids
Get the kids stretching and posing with Blooming Breath Yoga for Kids & Teens. Join them for a 45 minute session!
DIY STORYBOOK
Funny Face Story Book
Have your child make their own funny face storybook with The Children’s Museum of the Arts.
SHARE A STORY
Virtual Story Time
So many authors are hosting online story times! Check out the #OperationStoryTime list here — or tune into the B&O Railroad Museum for their virtual Junior Junction Story Time. Dolly Parton’s bedtime stories start tonight, too!
Share YOUR Favorite Story
The whole idea behind Children’s Book Day is for parents and kids to share stories together. Tonight at bedtime, share YOUR favorite childhood book! If you don’t have it lying around the house, check your public library for an eBook.
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