In the United States, National Child Health Day occurs each year on the first Monday in October. The day recognizes the care and guidance children need to grow strong and healthy.
#ChildHealthDay
Each child deserves to be the healthiest he or she can be. From the food they eat to the words they hear, children require support and opportunities to grow. Parents often worry about chronic disease, accidents or childhood illnesses. At the same time, they focus on a child’s mental health and general health. Whether it’s their environment, the food they eat or how much TV they watch, the day is an excellent opportunity to support the children in your life.
HOW TO OBSERVE CHILD HEALTH DAY
Go for a walk, play in a park, do some yard work or participate in activities to promote child health. Other ways to participate in the day include:
- Schedule your child’s next routine checkup.
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date.
- Schedule a routine dental checkup.
- Add new healthy activities to your children’s routine.
- Set an example by letting your children catch you in healthy habits.
- Inspect your child’s toys. Are they broken or age-appropriate?
- Share your best tips for helping your children live a healthy lifestyle.
While you’re celebrating, be sure to use #ChildHealthDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL CHILD HEALTH DAY HISTORY
Each year since 1928, under a Joint Resolution of Congress, the President of the United States proclaims Child Health Day. Originally observed on May 1st each year, in 1960 the date was changed to the first Monday in October.
In a response to a plea from both the American Federation of Labor and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs to proclaim the day, United States President Calvin Coolidge was the first president to issue a Child Health Day Proclamation while the resolution was still pending in Congress.
