National Child’s Day

On November 20, 1959, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, a landmark document outlining the fundamental rights to which all children are entitled. Thirty years later, on the same date, the Assembly ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child, further solidifying the global commitment to protect and uphold children's rights. This historic significance is why November 20 was chosen as the date for National Child's Day.

The observance of National Child’s Day in the United States can be traced back to 1995, when Lee Rechter, a retired school counselor, championed the idea of establishing a day dedicated to honoring children. Her efforts culminated in 2001, when President George W. Bush signed a one-time proclamation designating June 3 as National Child's Day. This proclamation called for nationwide support for children and emphasized the importance of nurturing their development from an early age. Although initially a one-time observance, it aimed to foster the belief that every child, regardless of their background, should have equal opportunities to thrive.

Rechter's advocacy continued, and for the following seven years, National Child's Day was observed on the first Sunday in June, as proclaimed by the sitting president. However, in 2009, under President Barack Obama, the observance was moved to November 20, aligning it with the global observance of Universal Children’s Day. Since then, National Child’s Day has been observed annually on November 20, a time when children are in school and surrounded by their families.

National Child’s Day provides an important opportunity to advocate for children's rights, promote their well-being, and engage in meaningful conversations and actions that help build a better world for the next generation. It serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow up in a supportive and empowering environment.