Wendy Ellyatt
Founder, National Children’s Day UK (NCDUK)
Children are at the heart of our communities, influencing today’s culture and shaping tomorrow’s society. Prioritising children’s wellbeing means ensuring they feel safe, supported and able to flourish as important young citizens.
Healthy, happy children today lead to stronger, more compassionate communities tomorrow. It’s not only about immediate benefits but also creating long-term positive impacts for future generations. They also need to be active participants in the process.
Prioritising all aspects of children’s health
Mental health matters, but so does physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. We need to better understand all the things that nurture meaningful and productive lives. There have recently been some really concerning statistics about the decline in UK children’s happiness and life satisfaction. This is something that we should all be worried about, as children represent a quarter of our population and all of our future.
Rethinking children’s lifestyle choices
Reflecting on how children spend their time is essential. Today, outdoor play and exploration are increasingly replaced by screen-based activities. Outdoor activities promote imagination, creativity and physical health, enriching children’s childhood experiences. Families, schools and communities need to actively foster opportunities for children to reconnect with nature, helping them to develop a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment around them.
Mental health matters, but so does
physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Is technology a friend or foe?
Technology provides powerful tools for education, creativity and connectivity. Yet, it also poses significant challenges. It is vital to educate children on using technology responsibly, helping them recognise online risks and maintain a healthy balance between digital interactions and real-world experiences. With proper guidance, technology can be harnessed positively, enhancing children’s learning and social connections without compromising their wellbeing.
Heads, hands and hearts
Children’s health is deeply connected to their environment and community. By promoting clean air, accessible green spaces and safe neighbourhoods, we contribute significantly to their holistic wellbeing. An ecosystem approach acknowledges these interconnections, encouraging integrated community actions and policy decisions that support healthy lifestyles. Collective efforts to create nurturing, sustainable environments ensure all children can thrive.
