Children's Growth Awareness Day

What Is Children's Growth Awareness Day

September 20 is "Children's Growth Awareness Day" in Japan, established by the Children's Growth Awareness Day Executive Committee, based in Minato, Tokyo, and certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2016. Its English name is "Growth Awareness Day."

Marking the Founding of ICOSEP, a Day to Watch Over Growth

The date commemorates September 20, 2013, when ICOSEP (International Coalition of Organizations Supporting Endocrine Patients) was founded — an international organization that supports patients with endocrine disorders and their families. The day aims to spread accurate knowledge about childhood endocrine disorders, promote early detection and treatment, and encourage the use of growth charts. Around this date, height-measuring events and other campaigns are held in many parts of the world.

• Origin: Established by the Children's Growth Awareness Day Executive Committee to mark ICOSEP's founding date (September 20, 2013); registered in 2016
• Purpose: To promote early detection of children's endocrine disorders and encourage the use of growth charts
• Certification: Certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association

What a Growth Chart Can Reveal

A growth chart, tracking a child's height and weight over time, is a simple but valuable tool for understanding their health. There are two main types: percentile curves, used in maternal and child health handbooks and school health checks, and standard deviation (SD) curves, used mainly in medical settings. Unusual changes in growth pace can sometimes point to an underlying endocrine disorder, and noticing them early can lead to timely care.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Check your child's growth chart, such as the one in their maternal and child health handbook
• Learn the basics of childhood endocrine disorders
• Take another look at your child's height and weight trends for anything that stands out
• Consider consulting your child's doctor if you have concerns about their growth

Noticing Small Changes Can Protect a Child's Future

Children's Growth Awareness Day highlights how everyday growth records can help protect a child's health. This September 20, consider taking another look at your child's growth chart.