NATIONAL DAYAWARENESS

National Missing Children’s Day

On National Missing Children’s Day, we lean into the business of growing up: the milestones, the mess, the big feelings.

MAY25

Tuesday, May 25Every year on May 25

days to go

Roots: Established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan
Vibe: Community solidarity and commitment to child safety.
Also on May 25: Geek Pride Day · International Plastic Free Day · Memorial Day
Hashtag: #NationalMissingChildren8217sDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Missing Children’s Day.

Put the phone away for an hour and follow their lead.
Let them pick dinner, the music, or the route.
Tell them one new story about someone in your family.
Do one boring parenting task as a small event — folding, bath, bedtime.
Send a photo of them to someone who'd love it.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Make one hour entirely kid-led. Do whatever they pick.
Kids
Let them plan the activity and see it through.
Couples
Trade one parenting chore you usually hate for a joint activity with the kids.
Office
Allow a little flex for parents on the calendar — school pickup matters.
School
Build a classroom tradition around the day — a story, a song, a simple ritual.
Community
Volunteer at a school, afterschool program, or youth center.
Just me
Reach out to a niece, nephew, godchild, or former student. Be seen.

Plan ahead

National Missing Children’s Day is observed on May 25 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, May 25this year

2027Tue, May 25

2028Thu, May 25

2029Fri, May 25

2030Sat, May 25

2031Sun, May 25

2032Tue, May 25

2033Wed, May 25

2034Thu, May 25

2035Fri, May 25

2036Sun, May 25

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Fast facts

NCMEC assisted in 27,644 missing-child cases in 2022

The story

National Missing Children's Day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing plight of missing children in the United States. Since its establishment in 1983, this day has been dedicated to raising awareness about the issue, while also honoring the countless families affected by the disappearance of a child. Each year, the day highlights the critical role that communities play in preventing child abduction and ensuring their safety.

Read the full story

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), the organization assisted in 27,644 missing-child cases in 2022, including some young adults aged 18–20. These cases encompass a wide range, from runaways to abductions. On this day, communities across the country participate in various activities, such as educational seminars and local events, to foster awareness and mobilize action against child abduction.

Internationally, the issue of missing children transcends borders, affecting families worldwide. Countries collaborate through organizations like INTERPOL to enhance communication and share resources aimed at locating missing children. The global nature of this issue underscores the need for vigilance and cooperation among nations to protect the most vulnerable members of society.

As we observe National Missing Children's Day, it is vital for individuals, families, and communities to reflect on their role in safeguarding children. By creating a culture of awareness and proactive measures, we can work together to prevent future abductions and ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow safely and securely.

Did you know?

First Observance

The first National Missing Children's Day was held on May 25, 1983.

International Day

International Missing Children's Day is observed on May 25, globally.

Advocacy Groups

Organizations like NCMEC play a crucial role in advocacy.

Increased Awareness

Awareness campaigns have led to a decrease in child abduction rates.

Tech and Safety

Technology is increasingly used to aid in finding missing children.

Community Involvement

Community events foster a united front against child abductions.

Every Child Counts

Every case of a missing child is a call to action for society.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesHome to National Missing Children's Day, emphasizing child safety.
CACanadaParticipates in global efforts to find missing children.
GBUnited KingdomHas its own Missing Children’s Day, focusing on local cases.
AUAustraliaCommemorates the day with community events for awareness.
INIndiaFaces challenges with a high number of missing children cases.
DEGermanyEngages in international cooperation to locate missing children.