Children’s Picture Book Day is a holiday observed on March 28th each year that encourages parents and teachers to share their love of picture books with children. Picture books are an excellent way to introduce children to reading and to encourage a lifelong reading habit.

Children are first drawn to these books by their bright colors and whimsical characters, but it’s the stories in the books that end up capturing their attention and holding it. Anyone who believes that books and reading are cornerstone elements of a good education will want to take the time to celebrate this holiday with their children.

The History of Children’s Picture Book Day

This holiday was first created in 1967 by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). The organization chose March 28th because it was the birth date of John Comenius in 1592. Comenius is not only known as the “Father of Modern Education” but is also recognized for creating the first children’s picture book.

This book was “Orbis Sensualium Pictus”—or “The World of Things Obvious to the Senses Drawn in Pictures”—and was published in 1658 in both German and Latin. The book features 150 pictures that depict everyday activities, including brewing beer, slaughtering animals, and tending gardens.

Observing Children’s Picture Book Day

We might be biased, but we think the best way to observe this holiday is by going to the local library and checking out some picture books, or if necessary, buying some from your local book purveyor.

Once you’ve done that, it’s simply a matter of taking the time to read your picture books with your children. When you’re done reading, don’t forget to use the hashtag #ChildrensPictureBookDay to let us all know what you read.