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Read time: 5 minutes
Each year, on 19th November, the UK joins the world in celebrating International Men’s Day (IMD). This day is about recognising the contributions men make to our society, raising awareness of the challenges they face, and shining a light on their health and well-being.
While the day is about men in general, it’s also a great opportunity to focus on the role that dads, husbands, boyfriends, partners, grandfathers, stepdads, uncles, brothers, and other male figures play in the lives of children. From nurturing and guiding to providing support, these men are essential to a baby’s development and happiness.
International Men’s Day was established in 1999 by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh in Trinidad and Tobago. The day was created to honour his father’s birthday and to celebrate positive male role models, as well as to raise awareness about the health and well-being issues men face, such as parental alienation, abuse, homelessness, suicide, and violence.
Since then, IMD has spread across the globe, providing an opportunity to recognise the vital contributions of men, from those working in communities to those making a difference at home.
For families, it’s a chance to celebrate the important men in their children’s lives—whether it’s a dad changing nappies, a grandad telling bedtime stories, or a brother helping out with playtime. The role of these males in a baby’s early years cannot be understated, as they help shape a child’s understanding of the world, offer security, and provide unconditional love and support.
The men in a baby’s life play a key role in providing emotional, mental, and physical support. Dads and stepdads often form that first special bond, whether it's through the daily routine of feeding, playing, or simply holding their baby. Grandfathers, too, offer wisdom, stories, and love, often becoming an essential figure of comfort and joy in a child’s early years. Brothers and uncles can bring fun, energy, and companionship to a child’s life, fostering positive interactions and helping to create a loving family environment.
These male figures teach babies and toddlers the importance of trust, care, and respect from an early age. It's equally important to celebrate these males by acknowledging the difficult experiences they may have quietly endured, often putting their family’s needs before their own.
International Men’s Day focuses on several key issues that are important for the men in your baby’s life:
Men’s mental health: Many men face mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety, but there’s still something of a negative stigma attached to male mental health struggles. IMD encourages open conversations and supports men in seeking help when needed. This is particularly important for males who may feel the pressure of providing for and supporting their families.
Prostate and testicular cancer: Awareness of men’s physical health, particularly prostate and testicular cancer, is another key focus. Early detection can save lives, and encouraging the men in your baby’s life to prioritise their health is an important message of IMD.
Fatherhood and positive role models: IMD places great emphasis on fatherhood and male role models, promoting the value of men as nurturing, caring figures. Positive male influences can have a lasting impact on a child’s growth, development, and emotional well-being.
Supporting men as victims of violence: IMD also raises awareness about men who may be victims of domestic violence or other forms of aggression, ensuring they get the help and support they need.
There are many ways you can celebrate International Men’s Day and the men who play a vital role in your family’s life:
Spend quality time with them: Take the opportunity to spend some special time with the important men in your baby’s life. Show them how much they’re appreciated.
Attend an IMD event: Many local communities host events like talks, workshops, or family activities to mark International Men’s Day. It’s a great way to engage with others and reflect on the positive contributions men make to society and family life.
Celebrate father figures: Create a photo album or memory book dedicated to your baby’s time with the men in their life. Collect images, quotes, and moments that capture the joy and support these men provide.
Host a family gathering: Plan a small family gathering to honour the men in your family. A simple dinner or even a special day out can show the men in your life how valued they are.
Support men’s health charities: Consider donating to organisations that focus on men’s mental and physical health.
Supporting men’s health and wellbeing goes beyond just celebrating their contributions—it’s about ensuring they have access to the resources they need. Here are a few organisations that provide valuable support for men’s mental and physical health.
International Men’s Day is more than just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to reflect on the importance of men in our lives and the pivotal role they play in raising and nurturing children. The dads, stepdads, grandfathers, uncles, and brothers in our families contribute so much to our children’s happiness and wellbeing. This day is the perfect time to show appreciation for the men who are helping to shape our children’s futures, while also recognising the challenges they may face along the way.
By supporting International Men’s Day, whether through spending time together, donating to a charity, or simply starting a conversation, you’re not just celebrating the men in your baby’s life—you’re helping create a world where men are supported, cared for, and recognised for their vital role in families and society.
You can donate to these organisations or find resources to support the men in your family. The official International Men’s Day website provides information for many associated charities and organisations on everything from domestic abuse to bereavement and modern slavery.
