Observed every June, Parenting Month begins with the Global Day of Parents on June 1 and serves as a platform to recognize the contribution of parents and caregivers in shaping children’s lives
LAHORE: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-June 18th, 2026) UNICEF Pakistan, in partnership with the Government of Punjab, organized a special advocacy event titled “A Future That Blooms, Grows and Thrives” in Lahore to mark Parenting Month 2026 and reinforce the importance of positive parenting, nurturing care and early childhood development (ECD).
The event brought together policymakers, health professionals, academics, students and civil society representatives to highlight the critical role of families in ensuring the healthy growth and development of children.
Observed every June, Parenting Month begins with the Global Day of Parents on June 1 and serves as a platform to recognize the contribution of parents and caregivers in shaping children’s lives. The Lahore event focused on promoting key family care practices, strengthening awareness about early childhood development and encouraging supportive environments for children across Punjab.
Throughout the event, speakers emphasized that a child’s earliest years are fundamental in laying the foundation for lifelong health, learning and wellbeing. They stressed that children thrive when parents and caregivers provide loving, safe and stimulating environments that support physical, emotional, social and cognitive development.
Participants were informed that nurturing care extends beyond nutrition and healthcare. Experts highlighted the importance of responsive caregiving, playful learning and positive interactions, noting that simple daily activities such as talking, reading stories, listening attentively and spending quality time with children can significantly contribute to their overall development.
Among the distinguished participants were UNICEF Punjab Chief Field Officer Rameez Behbudov, Child Development and Nutrition Specialist Najma Ayoub, Nutrition Officer Muhammad Salman, along with representatives from government departments, academic institutions and civil society organizations.
Speaking on the occasion, Najma Ayoub reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to ensuring that every child receives the care and support needed to reach their full potential. She noted that children’s development is influenced not only by institutions and services but also by the everyday interactions they share with parents and caregivers. She encouraged families to engage in activities such as storytelling, play and meaningful communication, which help build essential life skills and emotional resilience.
She further emphasized that parenting should be supported through enabling policies, community services and social support systems. Investing in early education, nutrition and child wellbeing, she said, is essential for building stronger communities and a more prosperous future.
Addressing participants, Rameez Behbudov highlighted UNICEF’s ongoing collaboration with the Punjab government to advance child rights and improve outcomes for children across the province. He stated that children represent Pakistan’s most valuable resource and should remain a priority in public policy and community development efforts. He also highlighted initiatives aimed at promoting child-friendly environments and strengthening support systems for families.
Mr. Behbudov called for collective action among government institutions, development partners, academia and civil society to advance the Early Childhood Development and Parenting agenda. He reiterated UNICEF’s commitment to supporting family-friendly policies and improving access to quality childcare services.
Professor Dr. Fatima Rehman of the University of Health Sciences spoke about the lasting influence parents have on children’s behaviour, learning and emotional wellbeing. She underscored the importance of parental engagement, maternal health and positive communication in fostering healthy child development.
A panel discussion moderated by Muhammad Salman featured leading experts who examined issues related to parenting support, nutrition, child welfare and children’s rights. Panelists highlighted scientific evidence showing the rapid pace of brain development during the first years of life and emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to support families and young children.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from UNICEF and stakeholders to strengthen positive parenting practices and expand early childhood development initiatives across Punjab, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to survive, learn, grow and thrive.
