National Grow Up Day

Happy young adult wearing a t-shirt with superhero emblem, playing with a toy airplane, surrounded by a colorful playground scene.. — National grow up day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to embrace your inner Peter Pan and never grow up? Well, you're in luck because National Grow Up Day is here to remind us that sometimes it's okay to be a kid at heart. So put on your Mickey Mouse ears and get ready for a day of nostalgia and childlike wonder!

When is Grow Up Day?

It's national grow up day on the 23rd February.

What is National Grow Up Day?

National Grow Up Day is a celebration of all things youthful and carefree. It's a day to let your inner child shine and forget about adult responsibilities for a little while. Whether you spend the day reliving your favorite childhood memories or indulging in activities that bring you joy, National Grow Up Day is all about embracing the kid within.

The Internet History of National Grow Up Day

According to our extensive research (by our team of grown-up kids, of course), National Grow Up Day first gained internet recognition on 23 Feb 2017. Since then, people all over the web have been sharing their favorite ways to stay young at heart, from playing video games to eating copious amounts of ice cream.

How to Celebrate

Wondering how to make the most of National Grow Up Day? We've got you covered with some fun ideas:

Host a game night with your loved ones and enjoy some friendly competition.
Indulge in your favorite childhood treats, because who says you can't have dessert before dinner?
Dust off your old sports equipment and challenge your friends to a game of kickball or tag.
Watch a classic animated movie and let nostalgia wash over you.
Build a pillow fort and spend the day lounging in your own little escape.

Did You Know?

Did you know that studies have shown that staying youthful and embracing your inner child can actually improve creativity, reduce stress, and boost overall happiness? So go ahead, jump on that swing set and let out your inner child's laughter. It's good for your well-being!

History behind the term 'Grow Up'

1560

Origins of the term

The term 'grow up' originated in the English language during the late 16th century. The word 'grow' referred to the physical act of increasing in size or height, while 'up' denoted upward direction. When these words were combined, they formed the expression 'grow up' which initially described the physical process of maturation and becoming an adult.

1874

Figurative use

As time progressed, the expression 'grow up' began to be used figuratively to represent emotional and psychological development, in addition to physical maturation. This shift in meaning occurred during the Victorian era in the 19th century, reflecting society's focus on proper etiquette and refinement. It became common to urge individuals to 'grow up' in terms of their behavior, maturity, and social conduct.

1920

Colloquial usage

During the Roaring Twenties, the term 'grow up' gained popularity as a colloquial phrase in American English. It was frequently employed to imply the need for someone to become more responsible, sensible, or sophisticated. This usage aligned with the cultural shift of the era, marked by the pursuit of pleasure, sophistication, and modernity.

1950

Popularity in popular culture

In the mid-20th century, the term 'grow up' proliferated in popular culture, particularly in movies, literature, and music. It became a common motif in coming-of-age stories and represented the journey of self-discovery and maturity. This cultural prominence solidified the term as a symbolic expression for personal growth and navigating the challenges of adulthood.

1990

Idiomatic use

In contemporary usage, 'grow up' has become an idiomatic expression figuratively urging someone to act more maturely, responsibly, or pragmatically. It is often used to admonish or convey disappointment with someone's behavior or attitudes. This idiomatic use reinforces the idea that maturity goes beyond physical age and encompasses emotional intelligence and wisdom.