In 1994, the U.S. Congress unanimously passed a bill (Public Law 103-362) to create a national observance for parents. On October 14 of that year, President Bill Clinton signed the bill into law, thereby establishing National Parents' Day. This year marks the ninth celebration of Parents' Day.
What is the significance of National Parents' Day? According to a quote from the original National Parents' Day legislation, "All private citizens, organizations, and governmental and legislative bodies at the local, State, and Federal level are encouraged to recognize Parents' Day through proclamations, activities, and educational efforts in furtherance of recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in the rearing of children" (H.J. Res. 398). Parents' Day is significant because it honors parents everywhere who are vital to the development of future generations.
Parents who talk with their children about what is happening in their lives are better able to guide them toward positive, skill-enhancing activities and friendships. A high level of parental involvement throughout adolescence has been associated with lower levels of child delinquency and better mental health. Strong adult/child relationships also can increase youth resilience and decrease youth violence. In addition, research has shown that children with parents who are highly involved in their lives attain higher levels of academic and economic achievement. For these reasons, it is critical that parents do all they can to sustain good relationships with their children.
