National Children’s Month

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: Awareness Children International
Where:: Philippines
Date change rule:: Every November
Holiday emoji:: 🧒

National Children’s Month champions the rights and welfare of Filipino youth every November. This month-long observance aims to ensure children access healthy environments, quality education, and essential healthcare. Engage with local initiatives, support child-focused organizations, and advocate for policies that protect their future.

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History
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FAQs
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Observe

Expected National Children’s Month Deals

National Children’s Month, a vital cause, inspires a range of community support and corporate social responsibility initiatives throughout November. Organizations like UNICEF Philippines and Save the Children Philippines typically launch fundraising drives and awareness campaigns, often partnering with local businesses for donation matches or volunteer programs. Major Filipino brands such as Jollibee and SM Supermalls frequently engage through in-store donation boxes, special events, or by promoting child-friendly activities. Telecommunication giants like Globe Telecom may offer educational resources or digital safety campaigns. We encourage direct support to these and other child welfare organizations throughout the month.

Platform Guide for National Children’s Month

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalChildrensMonth. Share stories and resources on child welfare.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalChildrensMonth. Join conversations on child advocacy and policy updates.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalChildrensMonth. Post visuals highlighting children’s rights and community events.

National Children’s Month Hero

Dr. Jose Rizal

Dr. Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, was a polymath, ophthalmologist, writer, and a key figure in the Philippine Revolution. Born in 1861, his writings, particularly 'Noli Me Tángere' and 'El filibusterismo,' exposed the abuses of Spanish colonial rule and ignited a sense of nationalism among Filipinos. He famously stated, 'The youth is the hope of our fatherland,' emphasizing the crucial role of children in the nation's future. His vision for a liberated and educated populace continues to inspire initiatives like National Children's Month, highlighting the importance of investing in the next generation.

History of National Children’s Month

Before the Philippines started observing National Children’s Month, many countries around the world had already been celebrating ‘Children’s Day.’ It began in June 1857 when Reverend Dr. Charles Leonard conducted a special service for the children. Initially, he first called it ‘Rose Day,’ then ‘Flower Sunday,’ and was finally renamed ‘Children’s Day.’

The first country that turned this celebration into a national holiday was Turkey back in 1920. However, the global adoption of this holiday didn’t happen until 1925 when International Children’s Day was proclaimed in Geneva, Switzerland during the World Conference on Child Welfare. On June 1, 1950, many communist and post-communist countries started adopting the International Children’s Day as well, including a joint resolution between India and Uruguay in 1954.

The Philippines first adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child by the United Nations on November 20, 1989. The National Youth Commission (N.Y.C.), the Council for the Welfare of Children (C.W.C.), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (D.S.W.D.) were tasked to come up with activities, plans, and charitable events to help children in need.

The focus of National Children’s Month is to offer help to those children who suffered from abuse, poverty, natural calamities, and violence. In fact, in 2013 alone, there was a disturbingly high rate of children who suffered from sexual abuse and exploitation.

By 2015, late Philippine President Benigno Aquino III made November the official National Children’s Month in the Philippines under the Republic Act No. 10661.

National Children’s Month timeline

1857

The First Children’s Day

The origin of National Children’s Month starts with Children’s Day as established by Reverend Dr. Charles Leonard.

1925

Children’s Day Goes Global

Due to the World Conference on Child Convention in Geneva, countries all over the world are starting to adopt Children’s Day as a national holiday.

1989

Children’s Month in the Philippines

The Philippines adopts the Convention on the Rights of the Child by the United Nations.

2015

The Official Declaration for National Children’s Month

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III officially declares November as National Children’s Month.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Children’s Month

Local businesses can authentically honor National Children’s Month by focusing on community engagement and support for youth. Restaurants might offer special child-friendly menus or donate a portion of sales to local children’s charities. Retailers can host educational workshops or book drives, while service providers could offer free or discounted services to families in need. Emphasize partnerships with local schools or child welfare organizations to amplify impact and demonstrate genuine commitment to the welfare of Filipino children.

National Children’s Month FAQs

When is National Children’s Month?

National Children’s Month 2026 runs throughout November, beginning on Sunday, November 1, and concluding on Monday, November 30. It’s a dedicated period for national focus on child welfare.

How many children are there in the Philippines?

As of recent estimates, there are approximately 40 million children aged 0-17 in the Philippines, representing a significant portion of the nation’s population. Their well-being is central to the country’s future development.

What are the key rights of children in the Philippines?

Filipino children are protected by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which the Philippines ratified. Key rights include survival, development, protection from abuse, and participation in decisions affecting them.

Why is National Children’s Month celebrated in the Philippines?

National Children’s Month in the Philippines aims to raise awareness about children’s issues and mobilize support for their welfare, particularly given the socio-economic challenges many Filipino families face. It highlights the importance of investing in the youth.

How to Observe National Children’s Month

Participate in complementary feeding programs
Several non-governmental organizations in the Philippines host complementary feeding programs for street children. You may help organize the event, bring food, or help serve their meals.
Host parties at orphanages
One of the most neglected sectors in the Philippines is the orphanages. Bring smiles and joy to the faces of the children by hosting games and food events in an orphanage near you. Tag along your friends and family to help you organize this event.
Treat your niece and nephews
A simple act within your family is a perfect way to celebrate National Children’s Month. Take your niece, nephews, or younger cousins on a fun day out! Enjoy good food, and fun conversations, and make memories together!

5 Facts About Children And Children’s Month

Dates vary internationally
Children’s months across the world vary in dates.
Drafted by a British social reformer
The Declaration of the Rights of a Child was drafted by Eglantyne Jebb, a British social reformer.
Children experiencing violence
In 2015, a study revealed that three out of five Filipino children experience violence at home.
Child abuse and parental histories
The majority of child abuse cases come from parental strategies for disciplining their children.
The International Save the Children Union
The International Save the Children Union in Geneva was dissolved due to financial issues, which was a major setback.

Why National Children’s Month is Important

Children deserve much better
We do not tolerate violence against children. The repercussions of abuse are something that will be carried with them until they become adults. This is a practice that should be abolished.
Children are our hope
The next leaders of our world are the children. We should hone them and give them access to education and a safe environment to make their future brighter.
The sense of community
National Children’s Month is a team effort within the community. It’s inspiring to see people joining hands in making this celebration possible.