National Parent Day

A heartwarming image of parents and children holding hands, dressed in casual attire, enjoying a picnic in a park.. — National parent day illustration

Hey there, folks! So you want to know all about National Parent Day, huh? Well, you've come to the right place! In this delightful article, we'll dive into the history and significance of this special day dedicated to our beloved parents. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and prepare to have your heart warmed!

When is Parent Day?

It's national parent day on the 26th July.

A Brief History of National Parent Day

Did you know that National Parent Day was inspired by Mother's Day and Father's Day? It was first officially recognized by the United Nations in 2012, giving parents their own special day of appreciation. From that point on, people worldwide have been celebrating their moms and dads on the fourth Sunday of every July. It's a fantastic opportunity to show gratitude for the love, sacrifices, and guidance parents provide.

How to Celebrate National Parent Day

There are countless ways to honor your parents on this wonderful day. You can start by pampering them with breakfast in bed, bringing them flowers or even cooking their favorite meal. A heartfelt card or a homemade gift will surely bring a smile to their faces.

Another great idea is to spend quality time with your parents. Take them out for a picnic, go hiking together, or maybe even plan a family game night! The key is to make them feel appreciated and loved.

A Day of Reflection and Appreciation

National Parent Day is not just about celebrating your own parents; it's also a time to acknowledge and appreciate all the parents out there. Take a moment to think about the countless sacrifices they make to give their children the best possible life. Whether it's biological parents, adoptive parents, stepparents, or guardians, they all deserve recognition on this special day.

History behind the term 'Parent'

12th century

The Origin

The term 'parent' originates from the Latin word 'parens', which means 'to bring forth, give birth, or beget'. In the 12th century, 'parent' was introduced into the English language to describe the relationships between an individual and their offspring. It referred to the father or mother of someone or the person who has brought up a child.

17th century

Expanding Definition

During the 17th century, the term 'parent' started to expand its definition beyond the biological sense. It began to encompass anyone playing a nurturing or authoritative role in a young person's life, such as adoptive parents, stepparents, and legal guardians. This evolution recognized that being a parent entails more than just biological ties.

20th century

Parenting as a Verb

In the 20th century, the term 'parent' started to be used as a verb, giving rise to the concept of 'parenting'. This shift in language acknowledged the active role parents play in raising and caring for their children. Parenting encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including nurturing, guidance, discipline, provision, and emotional support.

21st century

Diverse Family Structures

In the 21st century, the definition of 'parent' has further expanded to embrace diverse family structures. It recognizes that families can be formed through adoption, same-sex partnerships, surrogacy, and other non-traditional means. The term 'parent' now encompasses a broader understanding of the various ways individuals take on the role of a caregiver and guardian.

Did you know?

Did you know that the most popular gift given on National Parent Day is a handwritten letter expressing appreciation and love? A heartfelt message can mean the world to your mom or dad!