National Child Day is a day of observance in Canada that is celebrated on November 20th each year. It marks the anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1959, and the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1989.

National Child Day is a time to celebrate the rights of children and to recognize the important role that children play in society. It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made in advancing the rights of children, and to consider the challenges that still need to be addressed.

National Child Day is celebrated in a variety of ways, including through events, activities, and educational programs that promote the rights and well-being of children. It is an important day for parents, caregivers, and other adults to consider the ways in which they can support and protect the rights of children, and to help create a better future for all children.

Survive and Thrive

This year’s theme is the Right to Survive and Thrive, a theme highly relevant to children with disabilities, serious illnesses, and other life challenges.

Qi Creative knows all too well the challenges and barriers preventing children from surviving and thriving. Equity and independence is more than just access to food, to any equipment and devices needed, but also the opportunity to partake in school talent shows, show-and-tells, internships, volunteer and hobby pursuits, and anything else that gives a child meaning, purpose, and passion in their lives.

Article 23 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) specifically outlines rights of children with disabilities, which includes the right to a full life with education, training, opportunities for recreation, and preparing for employment.

Furthermore, the UNCRC states that child care services should be provided for children with disabilities, disorders and other health impairments.

National Child Day Events

Events are being hosted in Alberta and across Canada, from in-person indoor and outdoor celebrations, to webinars for grown-ups from bullying to immigrant child wellness.

Click Here for a list of events officially promoted by National Child Day and Children First Canada.

Get Involved for National Child Day

Looking for ways to show your support for National Child Day? We have some suggestions for everyone:

Follow Child First Canada on Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)
Read the child-friendly poster on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
Donate directly to National Child Day
Buy an #8MillionStrong T-Shirt, 100% of proceeds go towards Children First Canada programs
Use the hashtags #8MillionStrong, #NationalChildDay, and #ChildrenFirst in your social media posts
Color in a National Child Day coloring page with your kid(s)
Send a thank-you to your child-care provider, be they babysitter or licensed day care
Follow your child’s lead into interests they would like to pursue that day
With Christmas around the corner, prepare donations or volunteer for events such as the Holiday Hamper program