Artwork by Ivar da Coll

In 1996, while being interviewed for a radio program, Mexican-American children’s book author Pat Mora learned about the annual Mexican celebration of El Día de los Niños.  This celebration evolved from a Swiss conference on children’s wellbeing first held in 1925.  She loved the idea of celebrating the child and wanted to combine it with her love of reading.  Librarians and educators quickly embraced the idea.

El Día de los Ninos was first celebrated in the United States on April 30, 1997.  Its goals were to honor children, promote literacy and understanding among cultures, and making parents aware of the key role they play in their children’s literacy and language acquisition.

The celebration has gained in popularity and prominence in the years since, with more and more people delighting in and understanding the importance of creating a truly multilingual and multicultural nation for our children.  Join us in applauding Pat Mora for her drive and enthusiasm for making the United States part of this momentous event for the past ten years.