March 2, 2011 is the National Education Association’s Read Across America Day, which is also Theodore Geisel’s birthday – more commonly known as Dr. Seuss. This is a fitting day for such a reading event, as Dr. Seuss has blessed children and adults with classic, educational, and entertaining books that are embraced by generations. Here are some kid’s activities to help in the Read Across America Day event and also remember an honored figure in children’s literature, Dr. Seuss. These are also good activities for adults to participate in.
Seussville
This is a wonderful website filled with opportunities and ideas to celebrate Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss’ birthday. From classroom or groups games, online games, printable activity sheets, discussion questions to ask children after reading “The Lorax,” and more, there are fun activities for children to enjoy and learn from. This is an amazing resource!
Volunteer
Check with your local library and/or school for volunteer opportunities. March 2nd would be a wonderful day to begin as a reading volunteer and/or mentor for children, as would any day be a good day – the sooner the better. Children love to be read to by adults, and sometimes they do not have one on one time at home, so by becoming a volunteer or mentor, you will be giving a gift that will last a lifetime. On a personal note, I became a reading mentor to two wonderful students and it has been an amazing opportunity that I look forward to weekly. To read about my journey, click here.
Green Eggs and Ham Speedy Diner Game
For a hands on taste of the Sam I Am and his challenge of trying to convince his friend to try a most odd dinner, here is a game to entertain. This game encourages reading, counting, shape recognition, and grows social skills. Available on Amazon.com.
Dr. Seuss Matching Game
Also available on Amazon.com, this game encourages memory skills, social skills, and is an easy game to take to school or share with friends.
Go To Your Local Library
Kids love going to the library and is a treasure collection of Dr. Seuss books available to everyone. Sit in the children’s area and read, or check out books to take home and enjoy. Don’t just stop at Dr. Seuss books – have your child(ren) pick out other books to enjoy at home, as well as a video, audio book or even music. The nice thing about libraries is the material is FREE to use until the return due date. If there is a book a child asks to check out repeatedly, that in return could be a great gift idea to purchase for a birthday, Christmas, or just because. Books make wonderful gifts!
Sources:
http://www.nea.org/readacross/
http://www.seussville.com/Educators/educatorReadAcrossAmerica.php
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6159870/being_a_reading_mentor_why_it_is_so.html?cat=25http://www.local.com/results.aspx?keyword=libraries+directory&cid=645&gid=US_-_Test_-_Aug_31&gclid=CL3rxNuIkqcCFYh_5Qod_wuBeQ
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6012834/off_the_bookshelf_top_10_books_to_read.html?cat=25
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6066580/off_the_bookshelf_childrens_books_gift.html?cat=25
http://www.amazon.com/The-Wonder-Forge-01019-Matching/dp/B003E296RO/ref=pd_sim_t_3
Personal Experience
