Making Book Week Magical
Book Week – An Annual School Event
Book Week is a special time in the school calendar where reading, creativity, and fun come together. For many children, one of the most exciting parts is dressing up as a beloved book character. But for parents, it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming—especially with limited time, budgets, or costume-making experience.
How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Costume Choice
Here are some simple ways you can support your child to choose or create a Book Week costume that’s meaningful, manageable, and most importantly—fun!
1. Start with Books They Love
Rather than trying to pick the most popular character or trend, begin with your child’s favourite books. Ask questions like:
- Who’s your favourite character?
- Which book have you read more than once?
- Is there a story that makes you laugh or feel brave?
By choosing a character they’re already connected to, your child is more likely to feel confident and excited about their costume.
2. Keep It Simple (and Comfortable)
You don’t need to spend a fortune or sew from scratch. Costumes can be pulled together using items from home or a local op shop. A few ideas:
- Pippi Longstocking – mismatched clothes, plaits with wire inside for sticking out!
- Harry Potter – black robe or coat, glasses, and a lightning bolt drawn on with eyeliner.
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar – green clothes and a red beanie with eyes glued on.
- Where’s Wally – red striped shirt, beanie, and glasses.
Comfort is key—your child will be in their costume most of the day, so make sure it’s easy to move in and not too hot or scratchy.
3. Encourage Their Creativity
If your child has a creative streak, encourage them to help design or make their costume. Give them safe materials and let them get hands-on:
- Use cardboard, fabric scraps, or recycled materials.
- Let them draw, paint, or decorate parts of the outfit.
- Turn it into a fun weekend activity together.
This not only makes the costume more meaningful but also builds their sense of independence and pride.
4. Talk About the Story Behind the Costume
Part of Book Week is celebrating the love of reading. Encourage your child to think about what their character does in the story, and why they chose them. It can help to:
- Read the book again together in the lead-up.
- Write a short description to bring to school.
- Practice a line their character might say.
This helps bring the costume to life and builds your child’s connection to reading.
5. Don’t Stress – It’s Meant to Be Fun!
At the end of the day, Book Week is about celebrating stories and imagination. Whether your child’s costume is homemade, store-bought, or thrown together last minute—it’s their enthusiasm that counts.
Remember: Your support, encouragement, and shared excitement are what make Book Week magical.
Images by: Freep!k
BLOG written by Hayden Long
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