The first of June is International Children's Day in many countries. It was decided in 1925 at the World Conference on Child Welfare in Geneva. It has been celebrated in Slovakia since 1952. The original idea of the holiday was to draw society's attention to the need to protect children's rights. On this day, parents are usually with their little ones, and spend it mostly by going to the countryside, taking part in various celebrations and travelling. Children receive sweets and gifts, but the most important thing adults can give them is their time!
Children look to us adults as role models. It is very important what memories we leave in the hearts of the little ones, because life in childhood is the basis for life in adulthood. Our job is to give children a happy childhood, not to try to make them a better versions of us. We must give them the opportunity to grow up and choose. We used to be carefree too, we used to go out with friends, we used to play different games and our only duty was to run home at seven o'clock in the evening because that's what our parents taught us.
On this day, celebrations take place in many cities in Slovakia. In squares various events, performances and sales of sweets and toys are held. Trnava volunteers, together with the Trnava city administration and the Municipal Youth Council, organised fun activities in Trinity Square. Face painting, braid knitting, floorball, beautiful trampolines in the form of castles, table football and hockey, giving away balloons and ice cream, and more. The children really enjoyed the activities mentioned above. Meeting real firefighters and policemen was a particularly wonderful experience. Throughout the event, music and songs were performed by young artists. The sunny summer weather also brought joy! The participants were charged with positive energy and a great festive mood.
Text and photos: Dominika Verešová