- May 28, 2025
The Hidden Meaning of International Children's Day Story
Every June, have you ever wondered why we have International Children's Day and what the true meaning of International Children's Day really is? Or maybe you're simply unsure about how parents can show their love for their children to make this day a memorable celebration for your little ones?
Today, we'll explore everything about International Children's Day from A to Z - from its origin story to specific ways parents can meaningfully celebrate with their children!
What is the true meaning of International Children's Day
Why Do We Have International Children's Day?
Many people might be surprised to learn that the origin of International Children's Day actually stems from a heartbreaking tragedy in world history. It wasn't born from joy, but as a day of remembrance.
The Lidice Village Tragedy - June 1, 1942
At dawn on June 1, 1942, Nazi German forces surrounded the village of Lidice in Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). They captured 173 men, 196 women, and hundreds of children.
The most heartbreaking part was that innocent children were brutally murdered. The meaning of International Children's Day begins here - as a reminder to protect children, which also explains where International Children's Day originated from.
Memorial monument honoring the innocent victims at Lidice village
From Pain to Hope
After Nazi Germany was defeated, the Czechoslovak state rebuilt Lidice village and erected a memorial there. In 1949, to remember the innocent children who were killed, the International Democratic Women's Federation decided to make June 1st the annual International Day for Protection of Children.
Since 1950, June 1st has officially become International Children's Day - not just for fun and games, but to remind us of our responsibility to protect children.
Global Definition and Mission
International Children's Day is a worldwide movement established to protect and promote children's rights around the globe:
- Ensuring basic rights: Education, healthcare, and protection from harm
- Celebrating childhood: Recognizing the importance of nurturing and protecting children
- Policy advocacy: Promoting policies that support children's development
When is International Children's Day?
June 1st Worldwide
June 1st every year is International Children's Day, recognized and celebrated by many countries around the world.
June 1, 1950 - A Historic Milestone in Vietnam
International Children's Day was first celebrated in Vietnam on June 1, 1950, right during the fierce resistance war against the French.
What's special is that despite being busy with hundreds of resistance activities, President Ho Chi Minh still remembered to send congratulations to all children across the country on this day.
Uncle Ho with Vietnamese children
From War to Peace
Since 1950, June 1st has become a special festival for Vietnamese children. Over 74 years, the meaning of International Children's Day has deeply rooted itself in cultural life, becoming an occasion for:
- Families to gather and express love
- Society to care about children's rights
- Schools to organize meaningful activities
- Creating beautiful childhood memories
Which Countries Celebrate International Children's Day?
Interestingly, each country chooses different dates to celebrate, creating a colorful "map":
The world and different children's day celebrations
- Japan (May 5): "Kodomo no Hi" - a national holiday. Specially, they have 2 days for children: March 3 for girls and May 5 for boys!
- China (April 4): Combined as "Women and Children's Day," showing family unity.
- USA: No fixed date, usually celebrated on the first Sunday of June, combined with other family occasions.
- Germany: Most interesting! Has 2 days - East Germany (June 1) and West Germany (September 20), reflecting the history of division.
- Turkey (April 23): Combined with "National Sovereignty Day," showing how the meaning of International Children's Day connects with the country's future.
- Canada (November 20): Following UN standards, commemorating the Declaration of Children's Rights.
- India (November 14): Coincides with the birthday of first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru - known as "Uncle Nehru" to Indian children.
What to Do on International Children's Day for Family Fun?
10 Sweet Wishes for Children on June 1st
Simple words from parents can warm children's hearts and become motivation for their development:
- "Sweetheart, this June 1st, Mom/Dad wishes you to always keep your bright smile and let your dreams soar high!"
- "Wishing you many good friends and beautiful memories in your childhood!"
- "You are Mom/Dad's greatest miracle. Always be confident and brave!"
- "Wishing you to always be curious about exploring the world and learning something new every day!"
- "Happy Children's Day! Mom/Dad wishes you good health to play to your heart's content."
- "Keep your kind heart and spread love to everyone around you!"
- "Wishing you to find joy in the smallest and simplest things."
- "No matter how big you grow, family will always be where you can come home to!"
- "You can become anyone you want to be. Believe in yourself!"
- "Wishing you a childhood full of laughter and beautiful dreams!"
Meaningful Gifts for Children on International Children's Day
When understanding the true meaning of International Children's Day, choosing gifts isn't just about bringing joy but also contributing to children's development:
Choose meaningful gifts for children on June 1st
Gifts for intellectual development:
- Age-appropriate storybooks
- LEGO building toys
- Science experiment kits
- Coloring books and colored pencils
Gifts for physical development:
- Children's bicycles
- Mini soccer balls, basketballs
- Skateboards
- Small sports equipment
Life skills gifts:
- Children's cooking sets
- School backpacks
- Cute alarm clocks
- Piggy banks
Family Activities for International Children's Day
Indoor activities:
- Cooking together with children
- Watching family movies
- Playing board games
- Making handmade crafts
Outdoor activities:
- Park picnics
- Museum visits
- Playing sports
- Exploring nature
Happy families sharing activities together on June 1st
How to Organize International Children's Day?
How Families Can Organize
Preparation:
- Make plans: Discuss with children about what they want to do
- Prepare gifts: Choose gifts suitable for interests and age
- Arrange time: Dedicate the whole day to children
On the day:
- Start with wishes: Create surprises right when children wake up
- Give meaningful gifts: Include explanations about why you chose these gifts
- Activities together: Do things children enjoy
- Capture memories: Take photos and videos to preserve moments
Children from many countries participating in commemorative activities
In Summary
We hope the information CHUS has provided about International Children's Day on June 1st - from the painful historical story to meaningful ways to celebrate with children - has helped you better understand this special day and find suitable ideas for your family!
June 1st isn't simply an occasion to give gifts, but also a golden opportunity for parents to connect more deeply with their children, create beautiful memories, and pass on good values.
CLICK NOW to explore the diverse collection of children's gifts at CHUS!
- From smart educational toys to unique handmade gifts
- From useful items to creative learning tools
- All carefully selected to bring joy and meaning to your beloved children
Don't let June 1st pass by without meaningful gifts!
