Celebrate Children’s Book Week in St. Louis

As parents raising children in the digital age, it can be difficult to prioritize the importance of time spent with a good book. Despite our best efforts, it sometimes seems like today’s youth are more interested in Plants vs. Zombies than they are in anything Dr. Seuss or J.K. Rowling has to offer.

But reading yields tremendous benefits for both children and adults – improved vocabulary and self-confidence, increased attention span and better academic standing, just to name a few. According to the American Library Association, students who read independently “become better readers, score higher on achievement tests in all subject areas and have greater content knowledge than those who do not.” Even in our modern digital landscape, books still have the power to change lives.  

The good news is that most kids truly enjoy reading once they finally discover that one series or character who speaks to their deepest dreams and desires. And since it’s almost time to celebrate the 97^th annual Children’s Book Week, now is the perfect time to introduce yours to some timeless children’s classics.

What Is Children’s Book Week?

First established in 1919, Children’s Book Week is the longest-running literacy initiative in the country. (Yes, it pre-dates iPads and Xboxes.) At the time, it was Franklin K. Matthiews, librarian for the Boy Scouts, who wanted to raise the bar for children’s literature. And almost 100 years later, it’s safe to say that Children’s Book Week has had the impact he initially envisioned.

From May 2-8, schools, libraries and bookstores across the country are hosting events to encourage reading among our nation’s youth. There are lots of local events scheduled here in St. Louis, and plenty of ways to break out the books in your own home too.

Book Week Events in St. Louis:

The St. Louis County Library celebrates Children’s Book Week every year, and 2016 is no exception. Storytelling, hands-on activities and special character visits based on children’s classics are scheduled at branches throughout the St. Louis area. Highlights include:

• A Visit from Clifford at the Headquarters, Grant’s View, Grand Glaize and Rock Road branches throughout the week.  Don’t forget your camera!

• A Mother & Daughter Pinkalicious Party on Saturday, May 7 at 2 p.m. at the Jamestown Bluff Branch. Enjoy light refreshments and be sure to dress in pink!

• An Elephant and Piggie Party at the Eureka Hills Branch on Monday, May 2 at 10 a.m. for ages 3-8. You’ll enjoy crafts and activities based on your favorite Mo Willems’ stories. Children ages 3-12 are also invited to the Mo Willems inspired Pig Party at the Florissant Valley branch on Wednesday, May 4 at 7 p.m.

• A Skippyjon Jones Fiesta at Headquarters on Thursday, May 5 at 1 p.m. features fabulous fiesta activities for kids ages 3-6.

Special Book Week activities are planned for tweens and teens too. Students in grades 6-12 are invited to design a literary t-shirt at the Eureka Hills Branch on Wednesday, May 4.  And humor writer Dave Barry will make an appearance at Headquarters on Thursday, May 5 at 7:00 p.m. to present his newest middle school misadventure “The Worst Night Ever.”

Registration is required for some events. More details: www.slsc.org

Other Ways to Celebrate Books in May

• Sign up for summer reading. Most area libraries offer Summer Reading Programs that reward kids for curling up with a good book, and many kick off during the month of May. Visit the Saint Louis County Library, St. Charles City-County Library or St. Louis Public Library websites for details.

• Attend a local story time. Check out Science Storytime with Ready Readers at the Saint Louis Science Center on May 4 or 5 at 10:15 a.m., Stories @STAGES on Wednesday, May 4 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. or Storytelling at the Museum at the Missouri History Museum on Tuesday, May 3 or Friday, May 6 at 10:30 a.m.

• Visit a book store. Whether it’s your nearby Barnes and Noble or a local small business like Left Bank Books, take your kids along and pick out a few new titles together.   

• Plan your own Book Week activities at home. The Children’s Book Week website has a comprehensive list of reading-related activities for various ages and interest. While most are geared to the classroom, they can be easily adapted for use at home.

• Explore the New York Public Library’s List of 100 Great Children’s Books or Scholastic’s list of the Top 100 Books for Kids.

• Read with your children regularly. It’s the easiest – and most enjoyable – way to impart a lifelong love of all that a good book has to offer.