National Child Health Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about National Child Health Day

National Child Health Day is on the first Monday of every October where we show our support of children’s health, family, and those that work hard to assist them. Children’s physical and mental health are significantly impacted by family income. Children from households below the poverty line have a higher obesity rate than those from households above it, and as the epidemic continues to spread, it is evident that we must do more.

The background of National Child Health Day

Prior to the mid-nineteenth century, there were no facilities specifically for the treatment of minors. Children were treated at home, and if that wasn’t possible, they were placed in municipal almshouses, just like their parents. Back then, children’s health was not well understood, and abandoned and orphaned infants were frequently left in infant asylums.

By the 1860s, the problem had become so severe that hospitals specializing in the care of infants were established to address it. There was a stigma associated with the sick and the impoverished, and not enough was being done to combat it. Early children’s hospitals provided ill and abandoned children with food, clothing, and other services to improve their health. The philosophy of these hospitals was that it was not the children’s responsibility if their parents made poor choices.

At the end of the nineteenth century, the national impact of these children’s institutions became evident. The number of children admitted to social welfare decreased over time, while the number of children with chronic illnesses or who required surgery increased. More children were receiving appropriate care, and as a result, more exhaustive analyses were conducted to improve their healthcare.

President Calvin Coolidge issued a proclamation for National Child Health Day in 1928, and Congress enacted it the following year. National Child Health Day was originally observed on May 1, but was moved to the first Monday of October in 1960. Since then, presidents of the United States have issued proclamations on this day in an effort to rally support for children’s health.

Child Health Day (USA) Messages, Wishes and Quotes

5 NATIONAL CHILD HEALTH DAY FACTS

Child Health Day’s slogan in 1939 was “The health of the child is the power of the nation.”

Fruits and vegetables, whole cereals, low-fat dairy products, protein foods, and oils should be part of a child’s diet.

Many commonplace kids’ snacks are surprisingly unhealthy, like applesauce and yogurt.

A nutritious diet can boost academic performance.

It is estimated that 82% of American children are in excellent health.

NATIONAL CHILD HEALTH DAY DATES

Year	Date	Day
2021	October 4	Monday
2022	October 3	Monday
2023	October 2	Monday
2024	October 7	Monday
2025	October 6	Monday