Joy of International Children's Day

Sweet memories of the past

In the past, when economic conditions were more modest, Children's Day celebrations for many generations were simple gatherings in a village yard. Children received a few candies wrapped in old newspaper and performed songs and dances they had prepared themselves. But it was this simplicity that left the deepest impressions.

Nguyen Thi Hoan, a 52-year-old preschool teacher who has worked at Nam Hong Kindergarten in Nam Sach township, Nam Sach district, Hai Duong province for 29 years, still vividly remembers the June 1 celebrations of her childhood.

In some years, when military units were stationed locally, soldiers would host events for children in the yard of the village warehouse. Families didn’t hold private celebrations as everyone gathered together.

“Children’s Day was the most anticipated day of the year for us. We were so happy just to receive a small gift,” Hoan recalled.

At that time, children would run freely in the yard of the village warehouse, chase kites in the fields, and burst with joy at the sound of the ice cream vendor’s whistle echoing from the alley. These small moments were full of pure happiness.

Vietnam's first celebration of International Children’s Day took place on June 1, 1950, right at the time of the fierce resistance war but was still held with great significance. President Ho Chi Minh sent a letter to children, reflecting the deep care of the Party and State for the young generation. Since then, June 1 has remained an occasion for society to show its love and care for children.

Present-day Children's Festival

With social development and improved living standards, modern Children’s Day celebrations have transformed in both form and content. Modest gifts have been replaced by valuable toys, and simple gatherings in village squares have given way to large-scale events at amusement parks, restaurants, or even family vacations.

Nghiem Thi Quyen, a resident of Hai Tan ward in Hai Duong city, born in 1995 and mother of two, often brings her children to the provincial Children's Center during summer break. “They love playing on the merry-go-round, painting plaster statues, and fishing. The variety of colorful games is so appealing,” she said.

When possible, Quyen also takes her children on trips to Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, or Hung Yen. “When I was little, we didn’t have much. Just being taken to the Children’s Center on the back of my mother’s bicycle was already amazing,” she fondly recalled.

Today, many preschools combine Children’s Day with school-year-end activities, creating fun and meaningful playgrounds for kids. Some private schools organize large-scale music festivals, nature trips, and even professional stage performances.

In the age of technology, children today are easily drawn into the virtual world. Recognizing this, many parents make a conscious effort to take their children outdoors and limit screen time. This not only helps them stay active but also preserves authentic childhood experiences.

Whether in the past or present, Children’s Day remains a festival of joy, laughter, and beautiful memories for all children.

LINH LINH