Is there anything more heartbreaking than seeing a student feel isolated because they struggle to read? I remember that feeling vividly. As a fifth grader with dyslexia and an auditory processing disorder, I often sat in the corner with a book two grade levels behind, stuttering through sentences I didn’t understand while my peers raced ahead. It was lonely, but it wasn’t the end of my story.

That girl in the corner grew up to graduate with honors, earn a Master’s in Reading Education, and become a Teacher of the Year. My journey from a struggling reader to a literacy advocate is why I created National Open the Magic Day. Celebrated every year on September 25th, this day is a global invitation to slow down, pick up a picture book, and remind every student—especially those still searching for their reading voice—that they belong in the world of stories.

Why We Celebrate National Open the Magic Day

Picture books are not “just for littles.” They are powerful tools that allow students to see the world through new eyes, build complex vocabulary, and practice deep empathy. For a child who struggles with dense blocks of text, a picture book provides a “confetti moment”—a breakthrough where the story finally clicks, and the magic of reading begins.

Whether you are reading on a classroom rug, in a library, or under a shady tree, National Open the Magic Day is about creating a safe space to explore. It’s a day to honor the “little me” in all of us who once dreamed of finding our place in the world of books.

This Year’s Selection

The Future Book by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris: A delightfully absurd and rule-breaking tale that turns language upside down. It’s the ultimate pick for sparking pure reading joy, embracing wild imagination, and showing students that books can be a playground. To get everything you need for our 2026 pick, sign up here! You will get the FULL guide, the picture book companion, and a family guide that you can send home so they can keep the magic going at home, too! (plus so much more!)

Previously Featured Reads

• The Curious Why by Angela DiTerlizzi: This delightful tale follows a young girl who embraces her “whys,” encouraging readers to seek knowledge and stay inquisitive. Check out this resource to help celebrate!
• The Day the Crayons Made Friends by Drew Daywalt: A hilarious adventure where Duncan’s crayons step outside their box to find friendship. It is the perfect catalyst for discussing creativity and how we treat one another. Check out this FREEBIE to use in your class!
• A Dollar’s Grand Dream by Kimberly Wilson: A clever and pun-filled story about a dollar bill with big aspirations. It’s a fantastic way to talk about ambition, worth, and the journey toward reaching our goals.

Fun Ways to Bring the Magic to Your Classroom

Ready to join the movement on September 25th? You can stretch the celebration across a day, a week, or the entire month! Here is my “easy-peasy” plan for making the day memorable:

1. The “Pink Confetti” Breakfast: In my classroom, we eat pink confetti donuts while listening to the read-aloud. It sets a festive, joyful tone from the very first bell.
2. Invite a Guest: Bring in a surprise guest speaker or a mystery reader to share their favorite picture book with the class.
3. Creative Independence: Set aside dedicated time for independent reading where only picture books are allowed. Watch how even your most advanced readers get sucked into the illustrations.
4. The “No-Mess” Activity: Use any of our guides linked above to facilitate morning meetings, vocabulary handouts, and a creative activity that requires absolutely no actual confetti (you’re welcome!).

Pro Tip: Capture the joy! Snap a photo of your celebration and post it with #OpenTheMagicDay so our global community of educators can celebrate with you.

The post Discover the Joy of National Open the Magic Day appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

There’s something truly magical about a themed celebration. In the classroom, pairing National Days and picture books is more than just a fun extra; it’s a way to spark curiosity, make students feel seen, and connect literature to the real world.

Whether it is National Bagel and Lox Day (February 9th) paired with the book Bagel in Love by Natasha Wing, or celebrating the historical significance of National Rosa Parks Day in December, these moments create “Confetti Moments.” Those are the special instances when a child or adult reads a book and finds that one special, connecting moment in a story.

Building Confidence and Community

In my room, the “National Days Reader” is a coveted classroom job! To help build their public speaking confidence, I have the student stand up and proudly announce: “Today’s National Day is…” To keep the magic going, I typically follow the announcement with:

• A “Turn and Talk” Question: For Bagel Day, I might ask, “What is your favorite type of bagel? Toasted? Cream cheese?”
• A Picture Book: I try my hardest to find a picture book that pairs perfectly with the theme to read aloud.
• Digital Integration: We often use my Read Aloud Calendar to click through fun facts and digital stories that bring the day to life.

Celebrate National Open the Magic Day

While I love every silly holiday from National Cotton Candy Day to Bacon Day, my absolute favorite is National Open the Magic Day, celebrated every year on September 25th.

I founded this day to acknowledge the universal impact of picture books for people of all ages. Picture books are my jam! They aren’t just for little ones; they are powerful tools for teaching complex reading standards and building a culture of literacy in upper elementary.

Your Free Year of Classroom Magic

I know what you’re thinking: “Courtney, I already juggle so much! How do I find time to research a holiday for every day?” I’ve got you covered. You don’t need to spend hours hunting for ideas or planning elaborate events.

I created a Free 12-Month National Day List so you can sprinkle joy into your day without the stress. This isn’t just a list; it’s a year of possibilities.

• 12 Full Months: Themed days chosen specifically with PK-6th grade in mind.
• Curated Book Recommendations: My personal favorites that pair perfectly with the holidays.
• The Ultimate Kid-Friendly List: Every day is vetted to be appropriate and engaging for your students.

Ready to Bring the Joy?

Small moments leave big imprints. A five-minute celebration during your morning meeting might just become the part of the day your students never forget.[Click here to grab your Free 12-Month National Day List] and let’s start creating some Confetti Moments together!

The post Open the Magic with National Days and Picture Books appeared first on Ramona Recommends.