World Children's Day, celebrated on November 20, is the United Nations' day for children. It promotes international togetherness, awareness of children's rights and action to improve children's well-being around the world. Schools, families, communities and even landmarks take part, with some buildings lighting up in blue. At its heart is a simple idea: every child deserves to be safe, healthy, educated and heard, and children themselves should have a voice in the decisions that affect them.
History of World Children's Day
In 1954, the United Nations General Assembly recommended that all countries establish a Universal Children's Day to promote children's welfare and international understanding.
November 20 holds special meaning in children's rights history. On that date in 1959, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. Thirty years later, on November 20, 1989, it adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child, an international treaty setting out children's civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. It became one of the most widely ratified human rights treaties in history.
Since 1990, World Children's Day has also marked the anniversary of both documents. In recent years, UNICEF has promoted the day with a 'kids take over' approach, inviting young people to step into roles in media, politics, business and sport to raise their voices on issues that matter to them.
Why World Children's Day Matters
Children make up roughly a quarter of the world's population, yet many still lack access to clean water, healthcare, education or protection from violence. The day keeps those issues visible.
It also celebrates children as people with ideas and opinions of their own. Encouraging them to speak up helps build confident, engaged citizens.
How to Celebrate World Children's Day
- Learn about children's rights: read a child-friendly version of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
- Go blue: wear blue or light up a building or window in blue, as many landmarks do.
- Let kids lead: give children a say in a family or classroom decision for the day.
- Support a children's charity: donate or volunteer with a reputable organization.
- Write to a leader: help children write to a local official about an issue they care about.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, companies can support a children's charity, run a toy or book drive ahead of the holidays, or host a 'bring your child to work' style activity where children share ideas about the company's products. In schools, students can learn about the rights in the Convention through games and posters, hold a class vote on a real decision, or write letters to children in another country through a pen-pal program. At home, ask your children what they think would make their neighborhood better for kids, and help them act on one idea. Read a book together about children in other countries to spark conversations about how lives differ and what all children share.
Fun Facts About World Children's Day
- The UN recommended a Universal Children's Day in 1954.
- The Convention on the Rights of the Child was adopted on November 20, 1989.
- Blue is the color associated with World Children's Day campaigns.
World Children's Day FAQs
When is World Children's Day?
It's celebrated on November 20 each year.
Why November 20?
It marks the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.
Is it the same as Universal Children's Day?
Yes. World Children's Day is the UN's Universal Children's Day.
Do countries celebrate children's day on other dates?
Yes. Many countries have their own national children's day on different dates.