The 5 Best World Book Day Costumes & Activities

Did you know that reading for pleasure is the single biggest measure of a child’s future success? More than their educational or financial background. That’s why World Book Day was set up - a charity that wants to see more kids reading and the improved life chances that brings.

Your little ones may not be heading into school for World Book Day on March 4th, but that doesn’t mean you can’t nurture their love of reading. We’ve rounded up the cutest World Book Day costumes inspired by our current favourite story books, plus some fun activities to spark their imagination at home and online.

Pink tulle and fabulous frills? The Queen of Hearts would approve of this fantastical flamingo costume.

Activity: Why not recreate a Mad Hatter’s tea party over zoom with your little one’s class mates – where everyone dresses up, eats cucumber sandwiches and reads an extract from the story. 

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From the glittering surface of the sea to the darkness of the abyss, this book takes readers on a bewitching journey through an underwater world of sea creatures.

Activity: Dress them up as a friendly shark and play the book’s free downloadable soundtrack as you read together.

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Zog... he’s cute, he’s curious and he looks wonderful in shiny green lamé. Add even more fun to this smash hit story by playing 'Drop Everything and Read.'

Activity: Throughout the day when a bell rings, everyone has to stop what they’re doing, pick up a book and read, parents included!

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This book is all about believing in yourself – and we say do it in sequins!

Activity: After reading the story, ask little ones to write their own poem or TV show about mermaids and act it out at the end of the day – the more imaginative the better.

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This high-energy animal adventure calls for a standout outfit. And what could be grander than our lion costume with luxurious gold fringing and embroidered paws?

Activity: Have a family game of ‘Jungle Charades’: write all the animals in the book on notecards - each player had to act theirs out with noises and gestures only.

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Need more ideas? World Book Day is offering lots of lockdown reading fun – from coloring print outs and book themed recipes.