Celebrating Roald Dahl Day

2018-08-17

One of the key challenges of teaching young people the value of literature is to find ways of encouraging reading and to foster a thirst for books that they will carry with them into adulthood. For many children the books of Roald Dahl have provided just such a gateway and teachers will certainly be aware of the incredible power to engage young imaginations that his books possess. He is and remains the Big Friendly Giant of children’s book writers. The 21 books for young people that he wrote are among the best-loved and widely-read in the world. Who can forget such classics as James and the Giant Peach, Matilda, the Witches and Fantastic Mr Fox?


The influence that Roald Dahl’s books have had in introducing young people to the world of reading and literature cannot be under-estimated. What is the key to this success?  Commenting on the reason for the popularity of his books Roald himself has been quoted as saying “I have a passion for teaching kids to become readers, to become comfortable with a book, not daunted. Books shouldn't be daunting, they should be funny, exciting and wonderful; and learning to be a reader gives a terrific advantage.”


Of course, all who work in a school are equally passionate about teaching kids so as the 13th of September is Roald Dahl Day, this presents us with a great opportunity to get creative and offer children the chance to take part in Dahl-themed activities while they are in class. Why not organise a quiz or have the children dress up as their favourite character from one of the books?


More information about a range of activities that have already been arranged to celebrate the birthday of the Fantastic Mr Dahl throughout the month of September can be found on the official Roald Dahl website at  http://www.roalddahl.com/create-and-learn/join-in/roald-dahl-day