International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is today! The United Nations commemorates this day in 1987 when nations signed the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. We need the ozone layer, so today is a good day to respect our layers of atmosphere.
International Day of Peace is sponsored by the United Nations. Created in 1981, the event calls on all factions to cease fire. This year’s theme is “End racism. Build peace.” Children could learn more at: http://internationaldayofpeace.org/.
World Habitat Day is today! Sponsored by the United Nations, the day occurs on the first Monday in October. The day reminds us of the right to adequate shelter. It also celebrates towns and cities. This year’s theme is Urban economies. Cities as drivers of growth and recovery. The first celebration began in 1986 with a conference in Nairobi, Kenya.
International Day of the Girl Child is today! The United Nations created the day in 2012, and this year’s theme is Digital Generation. Our Generation. The United Nations states, “On 11 October, International Day of the Girl, we are working alongside all girls to expand existing learning opportunities, chart new pathways and calling on the global community to rethink how to prepare them for a successful transition into the world of work.” Children can learn more at: Girl Child.
World Food Day marks the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization in 1945. The organization is part of the United Nations. This year’s theme is Safe Food Today for a Healthy Tomorrow. Children could visit a website at: World Food Day.
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is sponsored by the United Nations. The event can be traced back to 1987 when a group met in Paris to see what could be done to eliminate poverty. This year’s theme is “Dignity for All in Practice.” Children can learn more at: End Poverty.
United Nations Day celebrates the founding of the organization in 1945. Membership has increased from 51 countries to 193 countries. António Guterres is the current Secretary General. Children could learn more at: United Nations.
Universal Children’s Day is observed by the United Nations. The day was first marked in 1953. Over one hundred nations recognize this day. Children could combine the ideas of the Bill of Rights and Universal Children’s Day and propose ideas for a children’s bill of rights. Children can learn more at: Children’s Day
World Soil Day is today! The day reminds us of the importance of healthy soil and its role in promoting a healthy earth. It was initiated by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations on December 5, 2013. This year’s theme is Soil and Water: A Source of Life. Idea: Children could dig up some soil and look for plant remains and animals. They could also investigate how to compost.
United Nations declares today as International Volunteer Day. This year’s theme is Volunteering Is Empathy in Action. Children could volunteer to help around the community. They could consider picking up litter or building bird feeders. Children could learn more at: Volunteer.