Pauline Mullings in office. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer

Ten years ago, the National Child Month Committee started Children's Action Day, with one simple goal; assisting children to understand their place in the world.

Children's Action Day is a mini-Labour Day for kids as well as a day in which adults, parents and guardians alike are encouraged to 'dote on the nation's children'.. Key to the success of the day is empowering adults with the necessary information to help the nation's children fulfil their potential.

This year, Children's Action Day will not just about adults taking action for the welfare of our children, but the children themselves taking action. The National Child Month Committee Children's Action Day project for this year will be the building of a ramp for disabled children. This will be carried out at the 3D Project, 8 Miramar Road, Morant Bay, St. Thomas. The activity will see the involvement of children from a number of schools across the parish, members of the National Child Month Committee including Chairperson Dr. Pauline Mullings, as well as Children's Advocate Mary Clarke.

According to Dr. Mullings, part of the focus is for children to understand that they have responsibilities, one of which is giving back to their communities, be it home or school. She also goes on to point out that getting them involved in these activities gives them a sense of accomplishment while building sound values, as they do it not just for themselves, but for their entire community.

Look out for our children

The National Child Month Committee asks that on Children's Action Day, we look out for our children on the road. Let our village raise the child.

Children's Day comes but once a year, however children are here for all 365 days of the year, so make it your duty to look out for them all year long. Show them love and kindness; set boundaries and remember to reward their achievements, however small. Get involved in their lives. Children are just that: children; show them the love they deserve, give them the guidance they need.

Dr. Pauline Mullings

National Child Month

Committee Chairperson