Forget the hearts and flowers, and celebrate Book Giving Day on 14 February

As is often the case when holidays arrive on the calendar, a number of early childhood education and care (ECEC) professionals have taken to social media to ask questions such as “Can anyone suggest a Valentines Day activity for the nursery room?” or “Hi educators…what’s everyone doing to celebrate Valentines with the children?”

While debate about the appropriateness or otherwise of involving children in Valentines Day celebration continues, an additional option for celebration on 14 February is available in International Book Giving Day. 

Since its inception in 2012, International Book Giving Day has grown to include more than 44 countries, including Australia, Canada, South Africa, France, India, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, the Philippines, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany. 

A volunteer initiative aimed at increasing children’s access to, and enthusiasm for, books, organisers hope “that people around the world will use 14 February to think about the best ways to help children in need in their community”.

A range of resources to support ECEC services to join in the day are available on this website, including printable bookmarks and bookplates to place into books and share with children and families. 

Services may also choose to mark the occasion by having a Book Drive, Book Swap, storytelling session or Book Walk. 

To be featured in social media posts about International Book Giving Day, be sure to use the hashtag #BOOKGIVINGDAY