Global Day of Parents

Global Day of Parents History

Global Day of Parents is an annual observance that aims to recognize the important role that parents play in the lives of their children. The observance encourages people around the world to appreciate and support parents, while also raising awareness about the issues that affect families and parenting. Global Day of Parents is an opportunity for individuals, communities, and organizations to come together and celebrate the love, dedication, and hard work of parents.

The UN General Assembly proclaimed this observance inspired by the 1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child. As a signatory to this convention, New Zealand plays an essential role in promoting and safeguarding children's rights. The Global Day of Parents affirms that parents of diverse cultural, economic, and social backgrounds worldwide have a shared responsibility in raising and guiding their offspring. This day also aligns with the Whānau Ora (family wellbeing) approach in New Zealand, an indigenous initiative for providing holistic health and support services to Maori families, thereby ensuring a cohesive family unit and encouraging societal harmony.

June 1st provides an opportunity for the people of New Zealand to appreciate and honour the commitment and resilience of parents in raising children. The observance of Global Day of Parents serves as a reminder for families, communities, and the government to work together in supporting each other, fostering strong family bonds, and ultimately contributing to a thriving society in Aotearoa.

Global Day of Parents facts

• Children go through 3 broad stages of growth and development:
  1) Early Childhood (0-8)
  2) Middle Childhood (8 to 12)
  3) Adolescence (12-18)
• According to the United Nations, there are approximately 2 billion parents worldwide. This includes both biological and adoptive parents.
• Studies show that parental involvement in a child's education can lead to higher academic achievement, improved behavior, and increased motivation.
• In 2022, the average age of first-time mothers in New Zealand was 30.0 years, compared to 26.6 years in 1996.
• The number of adoptions in New Zealand has been relatively low in recent years. In 2022, there were 105 adoptions, including both domestic and intercountry adoptions.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Global Day of Parents

Top things to do in NZ for Global Day of Parents

• Spend time with your family. Plan a trip, help prepare a home-cooked meal, or have everyone choose a movie for a movie night.
• Explore tips on parenting during Covid-19.
• Watch a movie about the experience of parenthood in New Zealand?
  1. Boy (2010): This heartwarming and poignant coming-of-age film is set in 1984 New Zealand and follows 11-year-old Boy as he deals with his father's return home after a long absence. The film offers a unique perspective on parenting and life in rural New Zealand through the eyes of a child.
  2. World's Fastest Indian (2005): Starring Anthony Hopkins, this biographical film tells the story of New Zealand motorcycle racer Burt Munro, who, in the late 1960s, broke the land speed record for a motorcycle at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. The movie shows Burt's unconventional parenting style as he simultaneously chases his dreams while raising his son.
  3. Give it a Year (2009): This TVNZ documentary series follows families from diverse backgrounds across New Zealand as they share their stories and struggles in the first year of parenthood. The series offers insight into the personal and societal challenges that new parents face.
• Read a book about the experience of parenthood in New Zealand. Here are our top picks:
  1. Growing Great Families: New Zealand Parenting Stories by John Cowan and Brian Tamer
  2. Whānau Talk: Māori Perspectives on Parenting by Wiremu Niania
  3. The Pākehā Parents’ Guide to Tikanga Māori: Raising Children in a Bicultural Aotearoa by Sophie Carty
  4. Parenting in Aotearoa by Parenting Education New Zealand (PAENZ)