April
2 : World Autism Awareness Day
Autism
is a lifelong developmental disability that manifests itself
during the first three years of life. The rate of autism in
all regions of the world is high and it has a tremendous impact
on children, their families, communities and societies. Throughout
its history, the United Nations family has promoted the rights
and well-being of the disabled, including children with developmental
disabilities. In 2008, the Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities entered into force, reaffirming the fundamental
principle of universal human rights for all.
The
United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April
as World Autism Awareness Day (A/RES/62/139) to highlight the
need to help improve the lives of children and adults who suffer
from the disorder so they can lead full and meaningful lives.
April
2 : International Children's Book Day
Since
1967, on or around Hans Christian Andersen's birthday, 2 April,
International Children's Book Day (ICBD) is celebrated to inspire
a love of reading and to call attention to children's books.
Each
year a different National Section of IBBY has the opportunity
to be the international sponsor of ICBD. It decides upon a theme
and invites a prominent author from the host country to write
a message to the children of the world and a well-known illustrator
to design a poster. These materials are used in different ways
to promote books and reading. Many IBBY Sections promote ICBD
through the media and organize activities in schools and public
libraries. Often ICBD is linked to celebrations around children's
books and other special events that may include encounters with
authors and illustrators, writing competitions or announcements
of book awards.
A
catalogue of posters and messages that have appeared between
1967 and 2002 is available from the Secretariat; the price for
bulk orders is available upon request.
For details, contact Datacentre
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