World Teachers’ Day (5 October) is the perfect time to celebrate the incredible teachers who help shape young minds — and hearts. Among the many things they teach, one of the greatest gifts they give is a love of reading. That spark they light in the classroom can grow into a lifelong passion for books, stories, and learning.

Teachers and parents share a common goal: helping children fall in love with reading. When we work together, we can make reading part of everyday life — in classrooms, living rooms, and everywhere in between. Here’s how to celebrate World Teachers’ Day by championing reading and strengthening the bond between home and school.

The Magic Teachers Bring to Reading

Teachers don’t just teach children to read — they show them why reading matters. They build curiosity, confidence, and a sense of wonder, one book at a time. Here’s how they do it:

  • Creating daily reading habits: Many teachers fill their classrooms with books, dedicate quiet reading time, and encourage children to explore new stories.
  • Making it fun: Storytelling, drama, and book-themed games help bring reading to life (and often end in giggles).
  • Recommending the right books: Teachers know their pupils — they can suggest stories that hit that sweet spot between challenge and enjoyment.

Parents can help keep that momentum going at home. For practical ideas, explore our Helping Children Learn to Read guide.

Ways to Celebrate World Teachers’ Day Through Reading

World Teachers’ Day is a lovely chance to say thank you — and to celebrate the power of reading together. Here are a few ideas for home or school:

1. Host a “Reading Celebration”

Plan a special storytime where children share books that celebrate learning and inspiration — maybe stories about brilliant teachers or characters who love to learn.

  • Try books like Matilda by Roald Dahl or Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney.
  • Let children dress up as their favourite book characters (bonus points for cardboard glasses or DIY capes!).
  • End with a group story swap — each child recommends a book they’ve enjoyed.

2. Create Homemade “Thank You” Cards

Books are full of wisdom, kindness and wonderful words — perfect inspiration for a thank-you card! Encourage children to make their own cards for teachers using favourite quotes or characters.

  • Draw a scene from a story read at school.
  • Add a message about how their teacher has inspired them.
  • Include a favourite book quote or even a tiny original poem.

3. Try a “Read Together” Session on Gratitude

Choose books that celebrate kindness, learning and gratitude — then read them together as a family.

  • Talk about what lessons the story teaches and how teachers make a difference every day.
  • Encourage your child to write or draw about a teacher they admire.
  • Share these creations with teachers to show appreciation (guaranteed smiles all round).

How Parents Can Support Teachers

Reading success happens when home and school work hand-in-hand. Here are a few simple ways to strengthen that partnership:

Build a Reading-Friendly Home

  • Set up a cosy reading spot filled with books your child loves.
  • Make daily reading part of your family routine — just 10 minutes a day makes a huge difference.
  • Chat about what you’ve read together — even short discussions help build comprehension.

Stay in Tune with Teachers

  • Ask teachers about your child’s reading progress and current interests.
  • Join in with school book fairs or reading events.
  • Get book recommendations that link to what they’re exploring in class.

Keep the Books Flowing with Reading Chest

Not every family can visit the library every week — and that’s where Reading Chest helps. We make it easy to keep your child supplied with level-appropriate reading books right through the letterbox.

  • Our Book Bands system ensures every book matches your child’s reading stage.
  • Flexible book swapping keeps things exciting, with fresh stories arriving regularly.
  • Find expert advice to support your child’s reading journey at home.

Why Parent-Teacher Partnerships Matter

When parents and teachers work together, the results are powerful. Here’s why collaboration makes all the difference:

  • Consistency: Reinforcing the same reading habits at home and school gives children confidence.
  • Motivation: Kids are far more eager to read when both teachers and parents cheer them on.
  • Early support: Staying in touch helps spot challenges before they become obstacles.

Want more help choosing engaging books? Visit our Tips on Choosing Books page.

Let’s Celebrate Our Teachers

World Teachers’ Day is the perfect excuse to thank the people who help our children fall in love with reading. Whether you’re making a card, sharing a story, or simply saying “thank you”, you’re helping to nurture that joy of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Want to keep the reading magic going all year? Learn more about Reading Chest and how we can help your child discover a world of stories.

How are you celebrating World Teachers’ Day? Share your ideas and reading moments with us on Twitter/X, Facebook and Instagram. Let’s celebrate teachers — and the readers they inspire 💛📚