Did you know that November is Picture Book Month? This international celebration began three years ago as an effort to spread the word that picture books are still an important and beloved part of childrens’ lives, as well as their education. The month-long event began in 2011 after the New York Times posted an article stating that picture books were no longer a staple for children. Now authors, illustrators, publishers, parents, teachers, students, and community members come together every year, all November long to celebrate all of the things that they love and cherish about their favorite stories.

At Johnson Elementary School, we love picture books! We recognize that these books, whether big or small, short or long, difficult or beginner – are a critical part of childhood and literacy that cannot be replaced. Our picture books make up a huge percentage of our circulation statistics, and many first graders and kindergarteners check out a new picture book every single day.

In order to celebrate in Picture Book Month and show our support for the books that we love, Johnson will be participating in many Picture Book Month celebrations, all month long! Here are a few of the picture book activities you might see in November:

– Classroom lessons dedicated to picture books

– Library lessons detailing favorite picture books and picture book history

– Digital displays highlighting staff picture book favorites

– A chance for students to share their favorite picture book with their classmates

– A special collaborative celebration that allows some of our oldest students to share stories with some of our youngest

In addition, the Johnson Library is inviting all staff, students, and teachers to dress as their favorite picture book character on Tuesday, November 26 (the last day before Thanksgiving break). Please come to school showing your picture book spirit and your love for early literacy! I can’t wait to see the costumes!

To find out more about Picture Book Month, please visit the official Picture Book Month website at http://picturebookmonth.com. This website includes great activity and lesson ideas, videos and downloadable Picture Book Month tools, and history and information about the international celebration. And, my favorite, it features a new essay every single day about the importance and wonder of picture books – written by famous picture book authors!

You can also find Picture Book Month on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.