What is National Middle Child Day?
National Middle Child Day is a special day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating middle-born children, who often feel overlooked within their families. This day acknowledges their unique traits, contributions, and the challenges they face due to their birth order.
Quick Facts
- When is it? August 12
- Tagged as: Family, Sibling Appreciation, Awareness
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalMiddleChildDay
- When was it founded? 1980s
- Who founded it? Elizabeth Walker
History of National Middle Child Day
Elizabeth Walker created National Middle Child Day in the 1980s to honor the often-overlooked middle children in families. Initially celebrated on the second Saturday in August, it later became fixed on August 12. Walker’s goal was to give middle children a sense of recognition and appreciation, combating the feelings of being “left out” that many experience.
Timeline
- 1980s: Elizabeth Walker establishes National Middle Child Day.
- Initially Celebrated: Second Saturday in August.
- Fixed Date: August 12 becomes the official date for observance.
- Modern Campaigns: Efforts by Bruce Hopman aim to move the holiday to July 2 for its symbolic significance as the year’s midpoint.
Dates for National Middle Child Day
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 12 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | August 12 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | August 12 | Thursday |
| 2028 | August 12 | Saturday |
| 2029 | August 12 | Sunday |
| 2030 | August 12 | Monday |
Observed on National Middle Child Day
National Middle Child Day is observed with love and attention toward middle children.
- Family Celebrations: Families often spend quality time with their middle child, showering them with attention through gifts, meals, or heartfelt conversations.
- Social Media Tributes: Many take to social media to share photos and memories using #NationalMiddleChildDay, ensuring middle children feel valued.
- Creative Activities: Parents create personalized scrapbooks or organize fun activities that highlight their middle child’s unique traits and achievements.
Fun Facts About National Middle Child Day
- Over half of U.S. presidents were middle children, including Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy.
- Famous middle children include Jennifer Lopez, Bill Gates, and Madonna.
- Middle children are known for their diplomacy and leadership skills, often becoming peacemakers in families.
Quiz
- What date is National Middle Child Day celebrated on?
- Who founded National Middle Child Day?
- What is the hashtag for this day?
- Which psychologist developed the “Middle Child Syndrome” theory?
- Name one famous middle child from history or pop culture.
Answers:
- August 12
- Elizabeth Walker
- #NationalMiddleChildDay
- Alfred Adler
- Abraham Lincoln or Jennifer Lopez
FAQs
- What is “Middle Child Syndrome”?
It’s a theory suggesting that middle children often feel overlooked due to their birth order. - Why was National Middle Child Day created?
To honor and celebrate middle children who often feel left out in families. - Can younger siblings also celebrate this day?
Yes! It’s a family celebration where everyone can show appreciation for the middle child. - Is there an official campaign to change the date?
Yes, Bruce Hopman has been advocating for moving it to July 2. - How can I celebrate this day?
Spend time with your middle child, share memories, or post a tribute online using #NationalMiddleChildDay.
Importance of National Middle Child Day
- Acknowledgment: It provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the unique contributions of middle children within families and society at large.
- Boosting Confidence: The day helps combat feelings of neglect by giving middle children a platform to shine.
- Strengthening Bonds: It encourages families to come together and appreciate each member’s role in creating a harmonious unit.
Related
- National Siblings Day (April 10)
- National Parent’s Day (Fourth Sunday in July)
- National American Family Day (First Sunday in August)