Celebrating Women Authors in Children's Literature During Read Across America Week

This past week marked "READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK." To kick off our discussions, I started our team meeting with an icebreaker question: Who played a pivotal role in nurturing your love for reading, and how did their support shape your journey? Who encouraged you to dive into the world of books? I encouraged everyone to reflect on their school days.

For me, a combination of influences ignited my passion for literature. Growing up in a time when there were only a few TV stations or newly arrived satellite channels and just one library in my hometown, my father recognized the importance of fostering a love for reading at home. He transformed our space into a sanctuary of stories, creating a personal library that opened worlds beyond our imagination.

But it wasn't just my father who fueled my literary journey. Immersing myself in activism with a structured reading of literature, history, and philosophy shaped my life. My older sister and my aunt were voracious readers and introduced me to the wonders of storytelling, and my older brother brought home books that sparked conversations about social justice and change. I was particularly inspired by the works of women authors whose stories resonated deeply with me and offered diverse perspectives on the world despite often being overlooked in mainstream literature.

In our digital age, where distractions abound, and attention spans wane, how do we continue to inspire the next generation of readers in our schools?

As educators, mentors, mothers, and influencers, let's harness the power of technology to make reading accessible and engaging. Whether through interactive e-books, virtual book clubs, or multimedia storytelling platforms, let's meet students where they are and ignite their curiosity.

It's crucial to foster a culture of reading beyond the confines of the classroom. Whether organizing author visits, hosting themed reading challenges featuring works by women authors, or creating cozy reading nooks with their books prominently displayed, let's cultivate environments that celebrate the magic of books and empower students to become lifelong learners.

In my school, we recently invited children's women author Mónica Mancillas, who emphasizes the importance of dual language. Her insightful work entertains and educates, highlighting the beauty of linguistic diversity.

I invite you to reflect on the individuals who shaped your literary journey, including the impactful works of women authors, and to share your ideas on how we can inspire our children and students to embrace the wonders of reading in this digital age.

Let's continue to champion literacy, nurture minds, and shape a brighter future through the power of words, especially during Women's History Month!