About World Children’s Day
World Children’s Day is observed on 20 November, the date the UN adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. It promotes children’s rights and welfare worldwide.
World Children’s Day began as Universal Children’s Day, established by the United Nations in 1954. It is held on 20 November because the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child on that date in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the same date in 1989.
The Convention sets out the rights every child should have, including the right to education, health, protection and to be heard. In many places, these rights still need attention.
How it is marked
Schools, governments and organisations working with children hold events and campaigns. Children are often invited to share their views, take part in activities or lead discussions, so that the day is marked with them and not just for them.
In India, Children’s Day, or Bal Diwas, is celebrated on 14 November, the birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, who was known for his affection for children. Many Indian schools focus their celebrations on that date, while World Children’s Day follows a week later.
What to write
Celebrate the child for their curiosity and kindness, and let them know they are heard.
- Happy World Children’s Day, little one. Your terrible jokes are still the best part of dinner.
- Every question you ask makes the world a little more interesting. Never stop wondering.
- Thank you for taking every idea at the children's council seriously. The kids felt properly heard.
How to wish someone on World Children’s Day
the joy, curiosity and rights of every child, and the adults who care for them
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between World Children’s Day and Children’s Day in India?
World Children’s Day on 20 November is a United Nations observance focused on children’s rights. Children’s Day in India, or Bal Diwas, is celebrated on 14 November, the birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru.
What is the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child?
It is an international agreement adopted by the UN General Assembly on 20 November 1989. It sets out the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of every child, and India has ratified it.
How can schools celebrate World Children’s Day?
Schools can let students lead an assembly, hold a discussion about children’s rights in simple language, or ask children what they would change in their school or community. Listening to children is at the heart of the day.
When is World Children’s Day in 2026?
World Children’s Day 2026 falls on Friday, 20 November 2026.
What is World Children’s Day?
World Children’s Day is observed on 20 November, the date the UN adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. It promotes children’s rights and welfare worldwide.
Is World Children’s Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World Children’s Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World Children’s Day?
Focus on the joy, curiosity and rights of every child, and the adults who care for them. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World Children’s Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .