Read for the Record is an annual event that promotes literacy and early childhood education. This event involves millions of people in a shared reading experience. The power of reading aloud not only ignites a love for books, but also helps children develop language and literacy skills.

Read for the Record is an excellent opportunity to celebrate reading with young children. Children eagerly listen to stories, and teachers, caregivers, parents, and volunteers can passionately share their love for books during this event.

There is a certain magic that lies in the shared experience of reading a single children’s book on a designated day. By showing young audiences that children from all over the world are reading the same book as them, educators can show how books ignite imagination and curiosity throughout different places and cultures.

The 2023 Read for the Record book is With Lots of Love by Jenny Torres Sanchez, illustrated by Andre Ceolin. It is the story of a girl who has moved to the United States from her home in Central America and explores how much she misses her Abuela and her old life. The book explores themes of family and culture and provides a great jumping off point to discussing these themes in your child’s classroom and at home. The official website has activity guides that you can use for ideas on how to incorporate themes and vocabulary from the book at home.

https://www.jstart.org/jumpstarts-read-for-the-record/

Read for the Record is a remarkable event that unites people across the globe in a celebration of reading. Let us come together, read aloud, and unlock the transformative power of books for future generations. All books read on this day and any day, keep the celebration going.

Tips on Reading to Preschoolers

While reading With Lots of Love, or any book aloud to your preschool-aged child, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Build your child’s vocabulary by talking about the interesting words and objects in the book.
• Use different voices, and don’t be afraid to read with lots of humor and enthusiasm!
• Be interactive - discuss what’s happening in the story, point out illustrations on pages, and ask questions.
• If your child has a favorite book, go ahead, and read it over and over!
• It’s ok to stop, even when the book isn’t over - if your child loses interest or is having trouble paying attention, put the book away for later.



Happy reading, and happy Read for the Record!