Families across the UK have been under budget pressure in recent years, and instead of spending money on costumes this year, some schools are asking pupils to wear just one color or take part in T-shirt decorating sessions.
Schools are telling children not to wear costumes on World Book Day to save money amid the cost of living crisis.
For years, students have celebrated the day by dressing up as characters from their favorite books. However, parents are now being encouraged to choose cheaper options in time for World Book Day on Thursday (7 March).
Instead of spending money on costumes or spending hours crafting them, some schools are asking students to wear only one color or participate in T-shirt decorating sessions. Rachel Minto, Head of Reading at Preston Grange Primary School in North Shields, Tyne and Wear, says many schools are keen to get back to the real purpose of the day – to encourage reading and a love of books. He said he is working on it.
She goes on to say, “Not every child has access to, rent or purchase Flash costumes. We want to encourage each child and their parents that reading should be a pleasure, not a chore.” I try to convey what it should be.”
Lorna Nicol, from the Children North East charity, said having to dress up children for World Book Day often puts further pressure on already stretched family budgets. Told. She said: “I often see parents making difficult decisions, such as skipping meals or going into debt, to protect their children from missing out on opportunities.”
In 2023, the National Literary Trust revealed that one in eight children aged eight to 18 who received free school meals said they did not even own a book. To mark World Book Day, every young person in the UK will be given his £1 book token.