Category: March

  • NATIONAL PITA DAY

    National Pita Day is on March 29 and celebrates the dipping, scooping, and wrapping of as many ingredients as we can think of into this delicious bread. We want everyone from around the globe to celebrate with National Day Calendar as we indulge in a prehistoric delight from the Middle East.

    #NationalPitaDay

    Pita has rich roots dating back about 2.4 million years ago during the Stone Age. Evidence shows the Natufian people in the region that is now Jordan, made a kind of flatbread from wild grains. However, unlike today’s pita bread which forms a pocket, the ancient pita bread was thin and flat. The first actual mention of pita bread takes place around 1936. In recent years, pita bread has become very popular in the US and around the globe as a healthy alternative to bread.

    What is pita?

    Pita bread is a staple of modern-day Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Pita is a circular double-leavened flatbread that originated in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and surrounding areas. Though there are plenty of variations that can be made, pita is traditionally prepared with flour, water, baker’s yeast, and salt. In addition, pita bread is naturally low in sugar and calories and is a rich source of protein and fiber.

    Most pita bread is baked at high temperatures which steams the water in the dough, causing the pita to puff up and form a pocket. However, pita can also be baked without pockets and is often referred to as a “pocket-less pita.”

    Ideas for Eating Pita Bread

    1. As a bread alternative for any sandwich.
    2. A great “crust” for pizza.
    3. Toasted for a delicious addition to breakfast.
    4. As a side to accompany your hot soup or salad.
    5. For dipping in hummus or tzatziki
    6. A baked pita cut into pieces makes a great chip.

    Pita bread may have ancient beginnings in the Middle East, but it is no longer limited to that part of the world. In fact, popularity in the past few years has grown and restaurants and grocery stores now offer a variety of flavors and options.

    3 Ways to Eat Pita Bread

    1. Meats: Steak, chicken, falafel, and lamb.
    2. Dips: Baba ganoush, hummus, or tabbouleh
    3. Sandwich: Chicken salad, fresh vegetable medley, tuna salad

    ORIGINS OF NATIONAL PITA DAY

    National Pita Day on March 29 first appeared on social media in 2021. Since then, this food holiday is quickly gaining popularity that matches the popularity of bread. As of 2023, National Day Calendar has been unable to find the creator or founder of National Pita Day. Until we do, spend the day enjoying pita bread as a sandwich, dip, or side with soup. Remember to tag #NationalPitaDay when you post your pita bread creations on social media.

  • NATIONAL MEMORY DAY | March 21

    National Memory Day on March 21 is a day celebrating the brain as a function of the human body that helps us to recall events and retrieve experiences from the past.

    #MemoryDay

    Most people think of memory as something that is used to remember past events. However, there are actually three functions of memory. The first function of memory is to acquire information. The second and third functions of memory involve the ability to retain and retrieve information.

    Test Taking Tips

    1. Acquire the information by reading, listening, and organizing your notes from class.
    2. Retain the information by using repetition. Find a quiet place away from distractions. Read and re-read your information.
    3. Test yourself or have a friend test you on the information.
    4. Take your test. Your brain will retrieve the information from your memory once you begin to recognize the information on the test.

    When the time comes to take the test, your brain will retrieve the information from your memory necessary to take the test.

    What are the 4 different categories of memory?

    1. Sensory Memory. This type of memory helps to remember sensory information after a certain stimulation has ended. Sensory memory is obtained by sight (iconic), auditory (echoic), and touch (haptic).
    2. Short-term Memory. This type of memory helps recall information for a brief period of time. Short-term memories only last for about 30 seconds.
    3. Working Memory. This type of memory involves immediate information that is necessary for completing cognitive tasks.
    4. Long-term Memory. This type of memory is any kind of information that can still be recalled after 30 seconds. Long-term memory is further broken down into explicit, which is information we deliberately want to remember (such as a friend’s birthday) and implicit, which are memories that we pick up subconsciously.

    Uncommon Facts About Memory

    Memory affects every stage of life, including the time before we were born. According to recent research, short-term memory begins to form in the womb at about 30 weeks gestation. When babies are born, memory helps babies bond with their mother. For instance, babies remember what their mother’s voice sounds like which helps them recognize their parents voices once they are born. Young children also use memory to learn how to navigate the world. No matter what their stage of life, all humans rely on memory to accomplish a variety of tasks. From pre-school through college, memory is necessary for learning new skills and advancing to the next level.

    10 Ways You Use Your Memory

    1. Traveling.
    2. Cooking favorite recipes.
    3. Completing puzzles.
    4. Singing songs.
    5. Playing an instrument.
    6. Playing sports.
    7. Telling stories from our past.
    8. Celebrate holidays and important events.
    9. Learning a new skill.
    10. Taking a test.

    Memory Loss

    Memory is involved in a large part of the human experience. Sadly, though, memory is one thing that people can lose. This is especially true of aging adults. As aging adults age, the brain changes with them. These age-related changes are usually a result of lower executive function in the brain. While older people can still learn new things and retain information, it might be more difficult to do so.

    6 Diseases Associated With Memory Loss?

    1. Alzheimer’s
    2. Vascular dementia
    3. Parkinson’s
    4. Huntington’s
    5. HIV/AIDS
    6. Wernick-Korsakoff Syndrome

    8 Causes of Memory Loss?

    1. Aging
    2. Head trauma
    3. Vitamin deficiencies
    4. Stress
    5. Fatigue
    6. Sleep deprivation
    7. Certain medications
    8. Mental health conditions

    HOW TO OBSERVE MEMORY DAY

    This is a great day to look to think about the important role that memory has played in your life. Other ways to observe this day include:

    1. Read journals from the past or start a new daily journal.
    2. Learn more about the different kinds of memory.
    3. Donate to an organization that funds research for diseases that cause memory loss.
    4. Do a crossword puzzle or play a memory-boosting game.
    5. Share one of your favorite memories on social media. Be sure to use MemoryDay when you post it.

    MEMORY DAY HISTORY

    It’s not that we cannot recall how National Memory Day came about, we simply do not know! However, National Day Calendar will continue to research the origins of this day. 

    Memory FAQ
    Why do some people have better memories than others?
    A stronger memory can be a result of having to encode more information. Genetics may also play a role in having a better memory than others.

    Can memory be improved?
    Yes, there are many things you can do to improve your memory. Some of these include daily physical activity, reading, spending time with others, staying organized, cutting out alcohol, and getting adequate sleep.

    What foods and supplements can help with memory?

    1. Brain supplements include Omega-3 fatty acids, electrolytes, B vitamins, protein, and antioxidants.
    2. Foods that boost memory include avocadoes, coffee, eggs, dark chocolate, blueberries, and turmeric.

    Days Similar to National Memory Day:

    1. National Train Your Brain Day | October 13
    2. Brain Awareness Week | Changes Annually
    3. National Brain Injury Awareness Month | March

  • NATIONAL SLAM THE SCAM DAY | March 9

    NATIONAL SLAM THE SCAM DAY

    National Slam the Scam Day on March 9th is an initiative to raise public awareness by helping the public to combat Social Security-related scams. Scammers are counting on you being uninformed of their deceptive tactics, the goal of this National Day is to get you informed on scammer tactics so you don’t fall prey to their schemes.

    #SlamTheScam

    Marlo Anderson, the founder of National Day Calendar, knows a few things about how scammers operate. He has witnessed countless people from the community come into our local shop having just been scammed by phone calls, emails, and threats.

    While we can often manage to repair the individual’s computer we cannot recover lost payments scammed from the public. For this very reason, we fully support National Slam the Scam Day.

    SLAM THE SCAM DAY

    The following points come directly from the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration (SSA OIG):

    • Be prepared. Real government officials will NEVER:
      • Threaten arrest or legal action against you unless you immediately send money;
      • Promise to increase your benefits or resolve a problem if you pay a fee or move your money into a protected account;
      • Require payment with gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfer, Internet currency, or by mailing cash; or
      • Try to gain your trust by providing fake “documentation,” false “evidence,” or the name of a real government official.
    • That list is just part of how scammers try to trick the public into paying them hard-earned money. Don’t let it happen to you!
    • Read the Press Release from the SSA OIG in the following PDF.

    NATIONAL SLAM THE SCAM DAY HISTORY

    National Slam the Scam Day began in 2020 designed to raise public awareness to combat Social Security-related scams. In 2021 it expanded to include other government imposter scams as reported losses from consumers climbed to more than $446 million and reported losses for 2022 are nearly $509 million.

  • NATIONAL I AM DAY | Second Sunday in March

    The second Sunday in March celebrates National I AM Day as a reminder to set time aside for daily positive affirmation and self-care.

    #NATIONALIAMDAY

    There is power in words. When we can believe what we speak in our own lives, we can impact the lives of others through our positive outlook on life. 

    I AM are two powerful words you can say that will change the way you think and feel about yourself. Also known as daily positive affirmations, the words I AM can help you overcome fear, self-doubt, and reduce self-sabotage. In fact, saying daily I AM affirmations will help you believe in yourself so you can achieve becoming your highest self. National I AM Day encourages everyone to reach their full potential through self-empowerment, self-motivation, and self-encouragement. Starting with I AM.

    10 Reasons to Why I AM Affirmations Work

    1. Helps you focus to achieve goals.
    2. Changes negative thinking patterns.
    3. Improves mental health.
    4. Restores self-esteem.
    5. Reduces stress.
    6. Provides relaxation alternatives during stressful moments.
    7. Improves your daily self-care routine.
    8. Boosts confidence.
    9. Replaces negative thoughts through positive reinforcement.
    10. Sets a reminder that things are temporary.

    Saying daily positive affirmations using I AM will reprogram your brain by replacing any negative thoughts, images, or ideas you may have of yourself. When you begin saying daily positive affirmations, your brain shifts away from the things that weigh you down. In fact, you will begin seeing yourself in a different light. Your brain begins to grow by increasing the power of creating an amazing life for you and those around you. Having positive thoughts every day is a powerful tool for you to use as you tackle everyday stresses and life altering experiences. Daily I AM affirmations are a positive reinforcement within your brain that will lead you to a healthier, happier life.

    How do I start saying positive affirmations? Starting daily positive affirmations begins with a small commitment to yourself. Your life is your journey. Only you know when you need to make small changes to improve your personal perception of life. By inserting the phrase I AM into your self-care routine, you will begin shifting your mindset and eventually create a more positive outlook on your life.

    National I AM Day Tips

    • Always practice affirmations using the present tense.
    • Avoid using words that give a negative intention.
    • Set aside time when you wake up or are ready for bed to say your affirmations.
    • Say your affirmations out loud and listen to your voice speak your affirmation phrases.
    • Find and use affirmations that have meaning to you, your life, and experiences.
    • Create your own affirmations based on areas you feel need change.

    Daily affirmations are not a cure for problems that resonate in your life. Affirmations will not solve your problems, but they will help how you react to your problems. Daily practice brings the best results, and it may take time to see results from your new self-care routine. Give yourself time to see the positive effects from your daily positive affirmation routine and experience your life changing.

    I AM. . .

    • I AM beautiful and unique.
    • I AM strong and independent.
    • I AM grateful for a new day.
    • I AM thankful for the life I have.
    • I AM an amazing human being.
    • I AM resilient and brave.
    • I AM more than enough. I AM enough.
    • I AM learning to become the best version of myself.

    FOUNDER OF NATIONAL I AM DAY

    In January 2023, National Day Calendar formed a collaboration with S.H.E Inc 501c3 Sisters Helping Each-Other and the She ROCKS It organization to create National I AM Day. This new celebration encourages everyone to set daily positive affirmations for themselves as a way to practice self-care.

    About

    The She ROCKS It organization mission provides a platform where women can come together and celebrate each other. Their goal is to help women network, inspire and empower, while encouraging them to be motivated. The organization supports and acknowledges the success of women by using their platform and putting them in the spotlight. They believe in promoting lifelong learning by hosting educational events, promoting positive relationships, and lifting one another up.

    For years I witnessed successful everyday women going above and beyond their daily jobs to do things that impacted and changed the lives of others. These women didn’t serve and give to receive recognition, they gave and served because it was their purpose and passion in life. They saw this as a way of fulfilling their life purpose.

    Joyce Dawkins, Founder, She Rocks It Organization

    She ROCKS It is dedicated to creating events that give women an unforgettable experience. Their events are created with today’s woman in mind, empowering women to live their best life by showing the world who SHE is.

  • NATIONAL SUNKIST CITRUS DAY | March 1

    NATIONAL SUNKIST® CITRUS DAY | March 1

    National Sunkist® Citrus Day on March 1 honors the rich history of California citrus, recognizes the legacy of multi-generational, family-owned Sunkist citrus farms, and celebrates the many health and wellness benefits that Sunkist citrus provides.

    #NationalSunkistCitrusDay

    The Sunkist cooperative has a rich history of values and a legacy of multi-generational, family-owned citrus farms, and is delighted to celebrate its 130th anniversary this year.

    Since 1893, Sunkist has been doing what they do best: growing citrus. What started as citrus growers in the late 1800s joining forces to collaborate and combine efforts, has evolved into more than 1,500 citrus grower members stretching across California and Arizona today. This is why Sunkist’s motto is “Stronger Together.” 

    Seed By Seed

    The first Navel orange tree in California was planted in the 1800s and became the very first citrus variety in the Sunkist portfolio. Today, Sunkist offers a robust portfolio of nearly 40 fresh, premium citrus varieties, including:

    • Oranges
    • Lemons
    • Mandarins
    • Grapefruit
    • Tangerines
    • Tangelos

    Do oranges have different flavors? Yes. Each citrus variety has its own unique flavor profile. Sunkist Navel oranges are one of the most popular varieties and offer the perfect balance of sweet and juicy. Sunkist Cara Cara oranges, also known as The Pinkie™ Orange, is sweet, seedless, and uniquely pink on the inside due to the natural presence of lycopene. Cara Cara oranges offer 100% of your daily vitamin C intake in just one orange. These oranges provide folate, fiber, potassium, and vitamin A in every bite.

    A Growing Legacy

    What do citrus farmers do?  What do citrus farmers do? Sunkist citrus growers take pride in growing and nurturing high-quality citrus for consumers around the world using traditional growing practices, stewardship of natural resources, and a dedication to innovation.

    Growing fresh citrus requires hard work, dedication, resilience, skill and innovation. It can take five years for one tree to make the citrus that arrives in stores. Once the fruit is ripe, Sunkist growers hand-pick the fruit, and once at the packinghouse, they are sorted, washed and packed before making their way to the store. Year after year, crop after crop, citrus growers share a commitment to providing fresh quality citrus consumers enjoy worldwide.

    Sunkist citrus growers take pride in growing and nurturing high-quality citrus for consumers around the world using traditional growing practices, stewardship of natural resources, and a dedication to innovation. Year after year, crop after crop, citrus growers share a commitment to providing fresh quality citrus consumers enjoy worldwide.

    CITRUS CELEBRATION

    Learn about the different varieties of citrus.

    • Head to your local grocery store and purchase a variety of citrus products and have a tasting party with friends.
    • Learn a new recipe using citrus ingredients. Recipe inspiration can always be found on Sunkist.com/recipes.
    • Share your favorite citrus recipe or wellness hack and give Sunkist a shout-out on social media using #NationalSunkistCitrusDay.

    SUNKIST®

    In 2023, National Day Calendar welcomed Sunkist Growers  to the National Day Calendar Founder Family. Each year on March 1, we will celebrating National Sunkist Citrus Day in honor of the legacy the cooperative has created for over a century. The entire day recognizes the farmers who dedicate their lives to citrus farming, providing us with delicious and nutritious citrus fruit to enjoy.

  • NATIONAL SPRAY TANNING DAY | Third Thursday in March

    NATIONAL SPRAY TANNING DAY | Third Thursday in March

    Get your glow on and celebrate National Spray Tanning Day on the third Thursday in March by getting a fresh spray tan!

    #NationalSprayTanningDay

    After the winter, our skin can be dull and dry. Today on National Spray Tanning Day, prepare to glow all spring and summer with a natural spray tan. In fact, spray tanning is a great way to achieve a healthy head-to-toe glow and is customizable for any skin tone.

    There are two types of spray tanning. The first uses an automated spray booth. The second uses a professional spray tan artist creating an air-brushed glow using a handheld spray machine. Both options allow for a customizable and desirable color that compliments all skin tones. In addition, both types of spray tanning involve being sprayed with a liquid solution that contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA).

    Dihydroxyacetone is a naturally derived and fermented active ingredient that reacts with your skin to mimic a tan for a temporary amount of time. After getting a spray tan, it’s important to leave the solution on your skin for between four and 24 hours, rinsing when you have achieved your desired color. A spray tan:

    • Provides a sun-kissed glow in just minutes.
    • Evens out uneven skin complexion.
    • Gives skin a more toned appearance.
    • Boosts confidence.
    • Can be customized based on your preferences.
    • Contains vitamins to lock moisture into skin.
    • Gives an even and streak-free tan.
    • Offers an option for tan lines.
    • Includes optional scents based on your preferences.

    Tantalizing Benefits

    There are many benefits to spray tanning. Not only can you achieve a sun-kissed look in just minutes, spray tanning also gives you a major confidence boost! The average spray tan, whether it be in an automatic booth or by a professional spray tan artist, takes about 5 minutes. For most people, when taking the route of traditional sun tanning, it can take hours or days to begin seeing a sun-kissed glow. Sadly, many people receive a sunburn instead of a tan when choosing the traditional sun tanning.

    How Do You Prepare for a Spray Tan?

    Preparing for a spray tan can help to elevate your overall experience. To get the most natural looking and long-lasting tan, be sure to:

    • Shower, exfoliate, and shave/wax 24-28 hours before your session.
    • Arrive for your appointment with clean skin. Do not apply moisturizers, deodorant, oils, or make-up before your appointment.
    • Wear loose-fitting, dark colored clothing to prevent bronzer transfer.
    • Schedule your manicure and/or pedicure appointments prior to your spray tan appointment, so that your tan does not fade prematurely.
    • Bring a rain jacket if there is a chance of rain to protect your tan while it is developing.
    • Avoid rinsing or getting wet for a minimum of 4 hours. You can leave your tan on for up to 24 hours before rinsing.

    Post Spray Tan Tips

    Your post-spray tan care is just as important as the preparation! Be sure to keep in mind the following tips to help your tan last as long as possible:

    • Rinse your spray tan with warm water and minimal soap/scrubbing.
    • Pat dry after rinsing your tan instead of wiping off moisture.
    • Apply moisturizer after your shower and then daily to extend your tan.
    • Avoid swimming/bathing for the first 24 hours after your spray tan.
    • Use self-tanners to help extend the length of your tan.

    SKIN GLOW CELEBRATION

    • Make an appointment for a spray tan at a location near you.
    • Flaunt your favorite outfit to wear once your spray tan is fully developed and rinsed.
    • Encourage your friends and family to utilize spray tanning as a healthy way to glow.
    • Share photos of your spray tan on social media using the hashtag #NationalSprayTanningDay.
    • Be on the lookout for giveaways, promotions, and events nationwide surrounding National Spray Tanning Day by following @mystictan, @versaspa, and @norvellsunless on Instagram.

    ABOUT #NationalSprayTanningDay

    National Day Calendar designated National Spray Tanning Day on behalf of Sunless, Inc. brands Mystic Tan, Norvell, and VersaSpa in 2022, to be celebrated on the third Thursday in March each year. National Spray Tanning Day encourages people to safely enhance their skin with a natural-looking glow!

    Sunless, Inc. is the leading industry authority in the sunless tanning industry with over 30 years of experience. The company offers sunless tanning technology alternatives such as spray tanning and self-tanning products in the place of harmful UV rays. Sunless, Inc. creates the best of the best when it comes to spray tanning booths, equipment, and solutions. The advanced spray technology delivers streak-free and natural-looking tans every time.

    With decades of experience, Sunless, Inc. creates the best of the best when it comes to spray tanning equipment, solutions, and self-tanners. The brands Mystic Tan, Norvell, and VersaSpa are iconic among frequent spray tan users.

    You can instantly locate a salon that provides spray tans by Mystic Tan, VersaSpa, or Norvell by using their salon locator.

  • CLASSROOM – Crayon

    CLASSROOM – Crayon

    National Crayon Day inspires this week’s classroom and why not? Crayons are an essential tool for every student. Even high school students find coloring relaxing and a creative outlet. When was the last time you colored? Yesterday? This morning? We never grow too old to color.

    HOW TO OBSERVE CLASSROOM – Crayon

    Break out the crayons. Color. Create art. Sort. Collect. Use every color in the box!

    Celebrate Every Day in the Classroom by:

    1. Asking a question about the day or observance and finding the answer.
    2. Exploring the subject further. Whether you read a book, interview an expert, watch a documentary, or run an experiment, there is always more to learn about the observance.
    3. Writing about the day or observance. You can write about what you learned or what the day means to you.
    4. Telling someone about the day. You might be sharing information that is helpful to someone. Or, you might brighten someone’s day.
    5. Solving a problem. Many observances discuss issues around the world that need fixing. How would you fix it?
    6. Being creative. Draw, paint, build, design, bake, create your idea of what the observance means.

    Of course, as always, sharing on social media isn’t required; learning is. But if you do, please use #NDCClassroom to share on social media.

    THIS WEEK’S PROJECTS

    Check out this week’s dot-to-dot and then head over to our long list of coloring pages. We have many to choose from. You can also complete the Celebration Challenge.

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

    National Day Calendar® is protected under the copyright laws of the United States. All information on this page, including design, audio, video, text, photographs, and graphics, is owned and controlled by National Day Calendar. Duplicating, plagiarizing, or falsely claiming creative ownership, printed or digital, without consent of National Day Calendar, is considered a violation of United States copyright laws. See full description of National Day Calendar copyright rules.

  • CLASSROOM – Goof Off

    CLASSROOM – Goof Off

    We don’t usually goof off in the classroom. However, sometimes goofing off is a good thing, even in the classroom. We can goof off for a few minutes to clear our minds and get ready for the next project, lesson or subject. There are many ways to goof off. We can play games, sing songs, or just be silly. And then, it’s time to get back to work, fresh and alert.

    HOW TO OBSERVE CLASSROOM – Goof Off

    Take a break and get goofy.

    Celebrate Every Day in the Classroom by:

    1. Asking a question about the day or observance and finding the answer.
    2. Exploring the subject further. Whether you read a book, interview an expert, watch a documentary, or run an experiment, there is always more to learn about the observance.
    3. Writing about the day or observance. You can write about what you learned or what the day means to you.
    4. Telling someone about the day. You might be sharing information that is helpful to someone. Or, you might brighten someone’s day.
    5. Solving a problem. Many observances discuss issues around the world that need fixing. How would you fix it?
    6. Being creative. Draw, paint, build, design, bake, create your idea of what the observance means.

    Of course, as always, sharing on social media isn’t required; learning is. But if you do, please use #NDCClassroom to share on social media.

    THIS WEEK’S PROJECTS

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

  • CLASSROOM – Johnny Appleseed

    CLASSROOM – Johnny Appleseed

    Spring is the perfect time to talk about planting in the classroom and Johnny Appleseed in the inspiring legend of a real man who is also part myth. This week in the classroom we offer a couple of projects to use in the classroom for National Johnny Appleseed Day.

    HOW TO OBSERVE CLASSROOM – Johnny Appleseed

    Explore the story of Johnny Appleseed. What do your students think about how he lived and what parts of his story are reality and what is myth?

    Celebrate Every Day in the Classroom by:

    1. Asking a question about the day or observance and finding the answer.
    2. Exploring the subject further. Whether you read a book, interview an expert, watch a documentary, or run an experiment, there is always more to learn about the observance.
    3. Writing about the day or observance. You can write about what you learned or what the day means to you.
    4. Telling someone about the day. You might be sharing information that is helpful to someone. Or, you might brighten someone’s day.
    5. Solving a problem. Many observances discuss issues around the world that need fixing. How would you fix it?
    6. Being creative. Draw, paint, build, design, bake, create your idea of what the observance means.

    Of course, as always, sharing on social media isn’t required; learning is. But if you do, please use #NDCClassroom to share on social media.

    THIS WEEK’S PROJECTS

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

  • DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH – March

    DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

    Each year in March, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month focuses increased awareness on the needs of those with developmental disabilities. The observance also highlights their potential in schools, work, and home.

    A developmental disability is a condition usually diagnosed during a child’s development and before adulthood. Developmental disabilities impair several areas of development such as physical, learning, language, or behavior.

    A variety of conditions fall into the category of developmental disabilities. However, early diagnosis is one of the keys to limiting the impact of a disability on a child’s long-term development. Developmental milestones such as language, response to sounds, walking, and following simple instructions are just a few milestones in a child’s development. Families and physicians monitor these milestones to identify possible delays.

    Screenings also help to identify developmental disabilities. Before and after birth, a mother’s OB-GYN and the pediatrician screen and monitor a child’s progress.

    The month also highlights programs and tools that assist those with developmental disabilities to reach their fullest potential. Organizations specializing in the needs of those with developmental disabilities are constantly improving access to resources and increasing the general public’s awareness.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #DevelopmentalDisabilitiesAwarenessMonth

    • Learn about the different types of disabilities.
    • Read first-hand stories by people with developmental disabilities. We suggest:
      • Disability Visibility: First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century by Alice Wong
      • Look Me In the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s by John Elder Robinson
      • How Can I Talk If My Lips Don’t Move: Inside My Autistic Mind by Tito Rajarshi Mukhopadhyay
      • The Year My Son and I Were Born: A Story of Down Syndrome, Motherhood, and Self-Discovery by Kathryn Lynard Soper
    • Share your stories.
    • Seek support from local organizations.
    • Help raise awareness by sharing this day on social media.
    • Use #DevelopmentalDisabilitiesAwarenessMonth on social media.

    NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY

    In 1987, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.