Honoring the Foundation of Our Family in 2025: National Parents' Day Recognition
National Parents' Day, a special occasion to express gratitude and love towards parents, was officially recognized in the United States in 1994. This day, traditionally celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July, serves as a complement to Mother's Day and Father's Day by honouring all types of parents, including adoptive and guardian figures.
In the United States, National Parents' Day originated as a means to acknowledge the invaluable role that parents play in shaping the lives of their children. The day is marked by family gatherings, community events promoting family values, and the exchange of gifts and cards.
The origins of Mother's Day, on the other hand, date back to the early 20th century. Anna Jarvis, who founded the holiday to honour her mother, aimed to expand recognition for mothers broadly. Mother's Day was established as a national holiday in 1914 and is traditionally celebrated with carnations, symbolizing living or deceased mothers.
In contrast, India does not have a formal National Parents' Day equivalent. Major holidays in India, such as Republic Day, commemorate the country’s Constitution and democratic governance rather than family or parenthood specifically. However, individual family values and respect for parents remain culturally significant.
National Parents' Day is not just about celebrating parents on a specific day. The love and appreciation that parents give to their children is a lifetime investment, and the return they seek is often just our time, respect, and appreciation. Quality time spent with parents, whether it's a movie night, a walk in the park, or a long chat over tea, is a valuable gift.
Parents are often silent architects, first teachers, mentors, protectors, and cheerleaders. They guide us through life, teaching us valuable lessons and providing unwavering support. National Parents' Day offers a formal reason to celebrate these unsung heroes, but it's essential to remember that honouring them should not be limited to a calendar date.
This year, National Parents' Day falls on Sunday, July 27. A thoughtful way to celebrate parents could be a surprise gesture, such as a handmade gift, flowers, or a chore-free day. Social media captions like "Every day should be Parents' Day. But today, we shout it louder - thank you, Mom & Dad!" or "To the world, you may be parents. To me, you are the world." are also popular ways to express gratitude.
As National Parents' Day gains traction in many countries, including India, it serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible parenting and the dedication required to nurture a child into an adult. Let's take this opportunity to reflect on the love, support, and upbringing our parents have provided and express our gratitude in meaningful ways.
References:
- History of Mother's Day
- National Parents' Day
- Republic Day of India
- National Days in India
On social media, heartfelt captions such as "To the world, you may be parents. To me, you are the world." underscore the profound impact of parents on their children's lives. Meanwhile, lifestyle and home-and-garden websites suggest thoughtful gifts like homemade crafts or a chore-free day for National Parents' Day, celebrating the unparalleled contribution of parents in shaping the world.
