Events

Join Children First Canada for an interactive digital event on National Child Day!

Check back for 2023 details!

National Child Day 2022

During National Child Day 2022, children and youth from across the country discussed what it means to be #SeenAndHeard. Children have a right to participate in decisions that affect their lives – in their families, schools, and even at the highest levels of government. There’s no better time to amplify the voices of children than on National Child Day!

Meet our speakers

We’re thrilled to bring an all-star cast of speakers to this event! CBC Kids News contributor Arjun Ram will be our emcee.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister Marci Ien will bring special National Child Day greetings.

Kayla Alexander, Olympian and WNBA athlete, artist, and co­author of The Magic of Basketball, will share her journey as a champion in Canada and around the world, and the importance of sports and mentorship in overcoming challenges.

Carey Newman, artist and creator of the Witness Blanket, and Indigenous child author Adelyn Newman-Ting will invite us to bear witness to the unique rights of First Nations, Metis and Inuit children and the important role children play in reconciliation.

DJ Lincoln Baio and illustrator Jason Wilkins will keep us moving and entertained!

Special National Child Day Greetings

The Honourable Marci Ien

Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

Special National Child Day Greetings

​The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau

Prime Minister of Canada

​Leadership Spotlight

Kayla Alexander

Professional basketball player, Olympian and current member of the Canadian Senior Women's National Team

​Opening Remarks

Sara Austin

Founder and CEO, Children First Canada

Host

Arjun Ram

CBC Kids News contributor

​Blessing / Cultural Ceremony

Elder Claudette Commanda

Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation, QC, and Chancellor of the University of Ottawa

​Keynote & Special Guest

Carey Newman

Indigenous Artist, Master Carver, Creator of the Witness Blanket

​Keynote & Special Guest

Adelyn Newman-Ting

Indigenous Child Author

​Entertainment

Jason Wilkins

Illustrator

​Entertainment

DJ Lincoln Baio

Portrait of Jill Schnarr

Sponsor Spotlight

Jill Schnarr

Chief Communications Officer, TELUS

National Child Day Events Across Canada

Check out the map to find out what’s happening in your city and province! Click on the heart icons for more information.

If you’re hosting an event to celebrate National Child Day, we want to hear about it! Please click “Submit Your Event” to share your information, including an image or poster. Once your event appears on our map, you can share it on social media! 

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