Growing up in a divorced family, I always felt a sense of being left out during Mothers' and Fathers' Day celebrations in school. While my peers happily crafted cards and recited poems, I was reminded of what was missing in my life. This was more than just a day's activity—it was a constant echo of absence that no child should have to endure.

Many children today live in non-traditional family structures, including but not limited to single-parent households, adoptive families, or with guardians like grandparents or other relatives. With such diversity in family dynamics, celebrating specific parental days can be exclusive and hurtful to those who may not have both their parents actively involved in their lives.

Schools are meant to be inclusive and safe spaces where every child feels equal. By celebrating Fathers' and Mothers' Days, schools inadvertently create a scenario where some children feel isolated or different. It's vital to foster an environment of inclusion and understanding that reflects the diversity of modern families.

A feasible solution is to shift focus from these specific celebrations to a more inclusive event such as 'Family Day' or 'Special Persons' Day'. This type of celebration allows each child to honour the important people in their lives, regardless of their family dynamics.

Statistics show that in India, around 2.3 million of children live in single-parent households according to the previous years census records. This makes it evident that many children may not have both parents to celebrate with, highlighting a broad need for inclusivity.

Let's urge schools across the country to reconsider how they celebrate family connections and adopt more inclusive activities. Sign this petition to encourage change in school policies and help create a nurturing environment for all students. Every child deserves to feel special and loved—not isolated or different. Please join me in making this meaningful change. Sign to support a future where every child can celebrate without feeling left out.