Latest news with #InternationalChildren'sDay
The Star
6 hours ago
- General
- The Star
China Focus: 80 years on, WWII stories still captivate Chinese youth
BEIJING: As International Children's Day fell on Sunday (June 1), 10-year-old Zhang Shucheng excitedly opened his gift -- a book that brings to life the dramatic story of the Chongqing bombing during World War II (WWII). Japanese warplanes indiscriminately bombed Chongqing, then China's provisional capital, and nearby cities more than 250 times between 1938 and 1944, killing and injuring more than 32,000 people. "It is a dark chapter in our history," said the student in Lanzhou, capital of northwest China's Gansu Province. "But I feel obliged to know more about it, from which we can draw lessons." Children watch a dry ice experiment during a celebration event ahead of the International Children's Day at a kindergarten in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, May 30. - Photo: Xinhua This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, and of the World Anti-Fascist War. Although the flames of war have long since extinguished, books depicting that tumultuous period and the bravery of those who lived through it continue to captivate young people in China, encouraging them to delve into that important chapter of history. Zhang could not remember when his interest in this phase of history first began. Perhaps, it stems from the bedtime stories his parents would tell him. Thirsty for knowledge, he happily reads at least two books about the war a year. Among his favorites is the cartooned novel Sparkling Red Star, a WWII coming of age story about a boy growing into a soldier. When he has questions, he tries to discover the answers together with his parents and classmates. A pupil participates in a long jump match ahead of the International Children's Day at a school in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, May 30, 2025. - Photo: Xinhua "Sometimes we found it difficult to answer his questions, so we had to check the history books or look online for related data to 'make up for the lesson'," said Zhang's mother Jiang Nan. She said her son is not alone, as she had seen an increasing number of children show an interest in the history of WWII, and together they have discussions. Li Keran, a 55-year-old owner of a bookstore in northeast China's Jilin Province, also observed the change. His bookstore in Changchun, capital of northeast China's Jilin Province, sells picture-story books, which used to be popular among his peers. He told Xinhua that his customers mostly fall into two groups: nostalgic people of his generation and primary school students. "When I was a child I used to be fascinated by the picture-story books," he said. "They could easily appeal to children, and are a good way to tell the younger generation our history so that they will work hard to build our country into a stronger one." An online database on the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and modern Sino-Japanese relations, jointly set up by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the Chinese Academy of History, the National Library of China and the National Archives Administration of China, offers more than 60 million pages of materials. Last year the database received a total of about 4.95 million visits from around 740,000 people. The number of visits and visitors increased by about 1 million and 110,000 respectively compared with 2023. In the first three months this year alone, the database has been visited 1.25 million times, with new users accounting for an average of 27 percent of monthly traffic. Literary works in China about the war of resistance first appeared in the 1930s and 1940s, when the country was struggling for survival, and were used to mobilize citizens and boost their morale. They continued to be popular after the People's Republic of China was founded. Some of the characters were once household names across China. In recent decades, especially in the wake of reform and opening up, people have more access to foreign literary works and tastes have diversified. However, the children's book market witnessed a peak in the publication of war-themed books in 2015, the 70th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. Zhang Sining, a researcher with the Liaoning Academy of Social Sciences, explained that such literary works fall into two categories: fiction and non-fiction. "The fictions are based on real stories reflecting the real history and real spirit of heroes in that era," she said. The scholar noted that in foreign countries there are also similar classics based on particular historical moments, like Molodaya Gvardiya of the Soviet Union and Les Miserables of France. "Literary works could arouse people's interest and lead them to learn about real history events," she said. "People believe that some literary works have vitality because they can share the emotions of and find solace from them," said writer Yang Xiaoyan. A playwright of several famous TV dramas, she herself is also author of several novels about the war for children and teenagers. "The wartime stories are by no means merely tragic narratives. They carry the power to strive for survival and keep moving forward, offering hope in the harshest circumstances," she said. She told Xinhua that while trying to avoid direct depictions of bloody scenes so that the books were suitable for younger readers, she also would like to send her readers messages of peace and love. At the end of a book, she wrote, as a comment in the memorial hall guestbook that main character of the novel saw, that "History is not horrible. What is horrible is the disregard for and oblivion of history. May peace prevail." Many Chinese schools also hosted various activities to encourage students to read more of such "red classics." For instance, in Anying Primary School in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, which was named after a war hero, October has been designated as a "reading month." During this time, students are encouraged to show the results of their reading in forms of plays, paintings and speeches. "Those books provide a bridge for parents and children to have dialogues with their predecessors which transcends time and space," said a teacher Chen Ming. "It is our hope that students could draw wisdom and strength from the books and form a sense of social responsibility, forging ahead bravely in their journeys of the new era." Pupils perform cheerleading dance ahead of the International Children's Day at a school in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, May 30, 2025. - Photo: Xinhua Zhang Shucheng has worked for more than two years in Gansu Provincial Museum as a volunteer guide, sharing insights with visitors based on what he has learned from books. "In the old days our predecessors were ill-equipped, but they still achieved victory by relying on their unwavering beliefs and indomitable spirit," he said. "We will also encounter difficulties in life, but as long as we persist, we will surely push forward." - Xinhua
The Star
2 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Chinese medical team, peacekeepers donate essentials to orphans in South Sudan
NAIROBI, May 30 (Xinhua) -- The 12th batch of the Chinese medical team, in partnership with the 11th Chinese peacekeeping infantry battalion in South Sudan, on Friday donated essential goods to orphaned children at the Confident Children out of Conflict (CCC) Orphanage. The group donated milk powder, mosquito nets, maize flour, washing powder, books, school bags, soap, flip-flops, tables, and chairs, among other items. Robert Bida Samson, executive director of the CCC, a charity organization, said support from the Chinese medical teams over the past years has helped ease the burden of taking care of these children. "The Chinese medical teams have stood with the CCC, making sure that all the children receive medical services, screening them both here at the center and also in Juba Teaching Hospital when the sickness is too serious," Bida said during the donation ceremony in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The ceremony, held under the theme "One Sky One Dream," coincided with the celebration of the 100th visit of the Chinese medical team to orphanages in South Sudan. Established in 2007, the center is home to orphans, abandoned children, and survivors of revenge attacks and gender-based violence. Bida commended the regular visits by the Chinese medical team, noting that these are critical to their longstanding partnership, which has empowered many vulnerable children at the center. "Some of these children are soon finishing school. I urge that through your empowerment, some of them could get employed at Juba Teaching Hospital to share responsibility with you," he said. Gift Gibson Natana, deputy director general at Juba Teaching Hospital, commended the Chinese medical team for their dedication to providing medical services to orphans and communities in remote areas. "These programs benefit tens of thousands of vulnerable people," Natana said. The 12th batch of the Chinese medical team, prior to visiting the CCC, also visited Juba Orphanage and Rock City Orphanage. Liu Hongyong, commander of the Chinese peacekeeping infantry battalion to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), expressed hope that the support provided to the children would empower them to realize their future dreams. "We wish the children of the orphanage a joyful International Children's Day. May this contribution add color to their lives and wings to their dreams. May they grow up healthy and strong," Liu said. Huo Ying, deputy chief of mission at the Chinese Embassy in South Sudan, expressed her gratitude to the Chinese medical team and the Chinese peacekeeping force for their contribution toward peace and development in South Sudan. "These contributions made by the Chinese medical team have been a valuable legacy in bilateral friendship," Huo said. She noted that the Chinese peacekeeping forces are participating in the UN peacekeeping operations in South Sudan, while the Chinese medical team is protecting the public health security of the South Sudanese. Huo also commended the contributions of Chinese companies toward the development of South Sudan, stressing that the Chinese people will always be the friends of the South Sudanese people.
The Star
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
'They must be protected': Lao PM pledges to safeguard children's rights
VIENTIANE (Xinhua): Ahead of the International Children's Day on June 1, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone extended warm wishes to all Lao children and youth, reaffirming the government's commitment to advancing and protecting children's rights. Local Pasaxon newspaper reported on Friday that in his message, Sonexay extended heartfelt wishes, love, and warm greetings to all children and youth of Laos, from every ethnic group, both at home and abroad. He expressed hope that they grow up happy, physically, mentally, and intellectually strong. He also added the govt will do all to ensure their children become responsible, disciplined, honest, creative, and confident individuals who seek to develop new skills and adapt to a changing world. - Xinhua
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Moonkie Unveils Hug & Go Toddler Backpack Ahead of International Children's Day
CALIFORNIA, US - Media OutReach Newswire - 30 May 2025 - Ahead of International Children's Day, Moonkie—the modern baby and toddler brand—proudly introduces the Moonkie Hug & Go™ Toddler Backpack, a thoughtfully designed essential that meets the evolving needs of modern parenting. Known for its minimalist design and everyday functionality, Moonkie continues its mission of nurturing early childhood development with products that blend emotional connection and practical utility. The Moonkie Hug & Go™ toddler backpack is designed for families seeking age-appropriate gear that empowers toddlers while maintaining emotional reassurance. Featuring a child-sized backpack with a removable plush companion, it encourages independence through everyday routines—while offering comfort during transitions and new experiences. A Backpack Designed for Growth—and Hugs Inspired by Montessori principles, the Hug & Go is more than a backpack; it's a developmental tool. Sized perfectly for small shoulders, it encourages toddlers to carry their own essentials while the attached plush companion provides emotional reassurance during transitions like daycare drop-offs, travel, or new adventures. Why it matters • Emotional resilience: The soft plush buddy helps soothe separation anxiety, turning moments of uncertainty into opportunities for growth. • Safety-first design: Padded straps, embroidered details (no choking hazards), and lightweight materials prioritize comfort and security. • Confidence-building: Gives toddlers a sense of ownership ('I can do it myself!') while easing parental worries. From Insight to Intention Moonkie's design team recognized a universal parenting challenge: toddlers crave independence but still need comfort. 'The Hug & Go bridges that gap,' says Cindy M., Product Manager at Moonkie. 'It's a backpack that carries both snacks and emotional support—helping kids feel brave as they explore their world.' Built for Real Life • Parent-approved: Lightweight, compact design (even fits under airplane seats!), durable fabric, and easy-to-clean surfaces • Gift-ready: Three charming characters— Rosie Hop the Bunny, Babu the Elephant, and Mossy the Reindeer • Accessible luxury: Priced at $32.99 / €28.99 / SR 124.00, the Hug & Go is a charming yet practical gift for birthdays, holidays, or 'just because' Celebrate International Children's Day with a gift that supports growth, sparks joy, and helps toddlers take their first steps into the world with confidence. For more information, visit Follow Moonkie on: Instagram: @moonkie_official TikTok: @moonkie_official Facebook: Moonkie Official YouTube: Moonkie Hashtag: #Moonkie
Arabian Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Moonkie Unveils Hug & Go Toddler Backpack Ahead of International Children's Day
A Cozy Companion for Young Explorers, Designed for the Needs of Today's Families CALIFORNIA, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 May 2025 – Ahead of International Children's Day, Moonkie—the modern baby and toddler brand—proudly introduces the Moonkie Hug & Go™ Toddler Backpack, a thoughtfully designed essential that meets the evolving needs of modern parenting. Known for its minimalist design and everyday functionality, Moonkie continues its mission of nurturing early childhood development with products that blend emotional connection and practical utility. The Moonkie Hug & Go™ toddler backpack is designed for families seeking age-appropriate gear that empowers toddlers while maintaining emotional reassurance. Featuring a child-sized backpack with a removable plush companion, it encourages independence through everyday routines—while offering comfort during transitions and new experiences. ADVERTISEMENT A Backpack Designed for Growth—and Hugs Inspired by Montessori principles, the Hug & Go is more than a backpack; it's a developmental tool. Sized perfectly for small shoulders, it encourages toddlers to carry their own essentials while the attached plush companion provides emotional reassurance during transitions like daycare drop-offs, travel, or new adventures. Why it matters Emotional resilience: The soft plush buddy helps soothe separation anxiety, turning moments of uncertainty into opportunities for growth. Safety-first design: Padded straps, embroidered details (no choking hazards), and lightweight materials prioritize comfort and security. Confidence-building: Gives toddlers a sense of ownership ('I can do it myself!') while easing parental worries. From Insight to Intention Moonkie's design team recognized a universal parenting challenge: toddlers crave independence but still need comfort. 'The Hug & Go bridges that gap,' says Cindy M., Product Manager at Moonkie. 'It's a backpack that carries both snacks and emotional support—helping kids feel brave as they explore their world.' Built for Real Life Parent-approved: Lightweight, compact design (even fits under airplane seats!), durable fabric, and easy-to-clean surfaces Gift-ready: Three charming characters—Rosie Hop the Bunny, Babu the Elephant, and Mossy the Reindeer Accessible luxury: Priced at $32.99 / €28.99 / SR 124.00, the Hug & Go is a charming yet practical gift for birthdays, holidays, or 'just because' Celebrate International Children's Day with a gift that supports growth, sparks joy, and helps toddlers take their first steps into the world with confidence. For more information, visit Follow Moonkie on: Instagram: @moonkie_official TikTok: @moonkie_official Facebook: Moonkie Official YouTube: Moonkie Hashtag: #Moonkie The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
