National Children’s Day History
In 1856, Reverend Dr. Charles Leonard looked around his society in Chelsea, Massachusetts and recognized a problem: too many children were being neglected and abused. Dr. Leonard dedicated a special service to focus on the children in his congregation, honoring their worth and addressing their needs. Over the years, this observance became increasingly popular, but no government action was officially taken.
Fast forward to 1989 when the Bush and Clinton administration decreed that National Children’s Day would officially be observed. The specific date, which explains why some people in the United States celebrate National Children’s Day on the original second Sunday in June, while others prefer to join the international celebration of World Children’s Day in November.
Declaration of the Rights of the Child
On November 20, 1959, the Declaration of the Rights of the Child was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. This declaration establishes the fundamental rights of children and was the inspiration for World Children’s Day. The declaration comprises 10 bullet points, which include:
- The right to special protection for the child’s physical, mental, and social development.
- The right to adequate nutrition, housing, and medical services.
- The right to special education and treatment when a child is physically or mentally handicapped.
- The right to understanding and love by parents and society.
- The right to recreational activities and free education.
- The right to protection against all forms of neglect, cruelty, and exploitation.
Importance of National Children’s Day
When you think of forced child labor, your mind might immediately go to unfortunate children in third world countries, but did you know that illegal child labor occurs here in the United States? According to data from the US Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, the number of minors employed in violation of child labor laws rose by 283% from 2015 to 2022.
And not only in the workplace, but child abuse occurs far too often in the household. The National Institute of Health has reported that on average, one in four children is abused or not given proper care or attention while they are growing up.
Children are some of the most vulnerable members of society. Often, they are unable to speak up for themselves or defend themselves physically, so we must be their voice and their protection. Many children are denied essential resources to thrive, so we must advocate for their provision. In the face of these tragic statistics and sad stories, take heart! Countless organizations, laws, and protocols exist to protect the welfare of the child, and much good is being done to these young, precious souls.
National Children’s Day reminds us that children are the future and there is a lot we can learn from them if we take the time to slow down and invest into their lives. What are some ways you can celebrate National Children’s Day?
How to Celebrate National Children’s Day
An obvious answer is to spend time with the children in your life. Manage the hectic pace of life in such a way that your children know that they are loved and heard, and that their needs will be met. Though day by day consistency is what children need most, planning a fun activity or outing will show them just how much you care.
Consider adoption or foster care. Over 391,000 children in America are still living in foster care and waiting for their forever homes.
Provide resources for your children to learn and grow in order to set them up for a successful future. One of the best gifts you can give your children is the gift of exposure to another language and culture. Cultural Bytes Language Program provides amazing Online and In-Person classes for children that will give them crucial skills and change the way they look at the world.
