A child’s health is shaped by much more than what happens in a doctor’s consultation. Nutrition, education, emotional support, safe surroundings and access to essential healthcare all influence how children grow and develop.

National Children’s Day provides an opportunity to think about the needs of children and the responsibilities adults and communities share in protecting them. Regular healthcare, vaccinations, healthy nutrition and attention to a child’s emotional wellbeing can all contribute to a stronger start in life.

Every child should have the opportunity to feel safe, listened to and supported. Creating those conditions is not only an investment in individual children, but in the future of the communities they will grow up in.

If a child needs help:
Childline South Africa can be reached on 116, free from a South African landline or mobile phone.