What is National Child Day?
There are 8 million kids in Canada, and they all have something in common—their rights! November 20 is National Child Day in Canada. It’s a time to come together and celebrate our country’s commitment to upholding the rights of children.
This special day also recognizes two historic events: the 1959 signing of the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. Globally, the day is known as World Children’s Day.
What Is The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child?
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is a landmark human rights treaty that protects the rights of children around the world. It ensures that kids and youth are treated with respect and dignity in all situations – regardless of their gender, race, sexual orientation, nationality or ability.
The Convention describes four groups of rights for children:
- Survival rights
- Development rights
- Production rights
- Participation rights
The Convention also ensures that the best interests of children are considered when decisions are being made on their behalf. Every child deserves to express their opinions and views.
Why Does National Child Day Matter?
National Child Day is an important day to celebrate and uphold the rights of children and youth in Canada. The rights covered by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child protect people under the age of 18 from being exploited. It also protects their right to education, health care and participation in society along with many other rights.
In Canada, National Child Day also serves as a day to recognize the progress we’ve made to better protect and support children. And it’s a day to remember that more still needs to be done to make Canada the best place in the world for kids to grow up.
Canada is only ranked 30th out of 38 wealthy countries for the well-being of children.
National Child Day is also an important day for supporting children themselves. When children have more knowledge about their rights, they can advocate for themselves as well as their peers. Celebrating National Child Day is a great way to prepare young people to be the leaders of today and tomorrow.
How Can I Celebrate National Child Day?
Celebrating National Child Day is important for kids and adults alike.
If you have children of your own or children in your life, you can teach them about their rights. You can also teach them about the history of National Child Day or the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
This year, we’ve created a special activity guide and other resources to help you celebrate National Child Day wherever you are. You can access them here.
A great way to raise awareness about National Child Day is by using social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Use hashtags and infographics to get even more attention. Every little bit helps support children’s rights in Canada. Check out our social media toolkit for more tips and information.
To take in a little more of National Child Day, you can attend an event in your area or online. Children First Canada (CFC) is proud to celebrate National Child Day with our partners from coast to coast to coast! We invite you to join us for an interactive digital event on November 20 at 1 p.m. ET.
This year, children and youth from across the country will discuss what it means to be #SeenAndHeard. You’ll also hear from youth activists, Canada’s leading voices for children’s rights, government and industry leaders, and more.
Visit nationalchildday.org for the latest updates, resources and information.
Together, we can make Canada the best place in the world for kids to grow up!
