Dressing-up can help children talk about books, share recommendations and feel confident taking part in World Book Day. In schools, the focus works best when dressing-up is simple, inclusive and linked clearly to reading.
This guidance is for teachers and school staff planning classroom or whole-school activities.
Plan for inclusion
Set clear expectations so children and families understand that the book choice matters more than the costume.
You could:
- Ask children to represent a character using three simple items
- Offer non-fiction options, such as props, badges or author ideas
- Encourage comfort, including pyjamas or everyday clothes
- Provide time in school to make simple costume elements
Low-pressure alternatives
Not every child wants to wear a costume. These activities still support book talk and participation.
Role on the wall
Draw an outline of a character and add thoughts, feelings and actions together.
Reading area refresh
Invite children to help redesign the reading space using labels, notes or short recommendations.
Classroom activities
These activities work well in lessons, assemblies or shared spaces.
Quick-fire recommendations
Children share a book in one minute. Reduce to 30 seconds to build confidence.
Human library
Children take turns giving short book talks and then rotate to hear new ideas.
Hot seating
Interview children in role as a character. For non-fiction, pupils can answer as the author or subject.
Book party
Create a simple party scene. Pause the action to ask children what their character is doing and why.
Why it works in schools
Dressing-up supports talk around books without adding pressure. When children feel comfortable, they are more likely to recommend stories, listen to others and see reading as social and enjoyable.
Related resources
- Low-cost dressing up ideas for World Book Day
- Using dressing up to encourage reading
- Dressing up ideas for parents and carers
- Class costume workshop
- Social reading activities that do not need costumes
Use of World Book Day resources
These resources are free to use for schools, early years settings, libraries, charities, and community groups celebrating World Book Day. Commercial organisations must have a partnership or licence agreement in place before using World Book Day assets. If you are interested in working with us, please contact [email protected].