VIENTIANE, June 2 (Xinhua) -- The importance of nurturing, protecting and empowering children as a key foundation for national development has been highlighted across Laos as the country marked International Children's Day, with a united commitment to providing a supportive environment for children and youth to grow and thrive.
Ket, a mother from Vientiane, believes children are not only the future of their families but also the foundation of the nation. She stressed that raising children requires more than meeting basic needs, highlighting the importance of providing a safe, loving and supportive environment at home, as well as access to quality education, activities and opportunities for growth.
"Even though they are still very young, everything I do today is for their tomorrow," Ket, a mother of two children aged 2 and 5, told Xinhua.
For her, the family remains the most important foundation in a child's life, where values, confidence and character are first formed.
"As parents, we must do our best because what we give them now will stay with them for life. Therefore, if we want a strong country in the future, we must start with children today. That means giving them opportunities to grow in good conditions from the very beginning," she added.
In his message marking International Children's Day, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting children's rights and supporting their safe and healthy development, while highlighting their vital role in the nation's future. He emphasized that children are the nation's future and a driving force for development, stressing that their care, protection, and empowerment are shared responsibilities across society.
"We all need to work together -- parents, teachers and communities. Children grow up by watching us. They see how adults speak, how we behave, and how we treat others. We are their first role models," said Sonemany, a kindergarten teacher in Vientiane.
As her daily life is closely centered on children, she emphasized that early childhood is a critical stage that requires patience, care and understanding. She said she strives to treat every child with empathy and encouragement, both in her classroom and in the wider community.
She added that a supportive environment and positive examples are essential to helping children grow into kind, capable and confident individuals in the future.
Sengaloun, a teacher in Vientiane who brought his 7-year-old daughter to a tree-planting activity at his school, said he uses such occasions to teach his child about environmental responsibility from an early age, helping her understand the importance of protecting nature for the future.
He also brought his daughter to International Children's Day events so she could interact with other children, enjoy performances and gain inspiration to become more confident and expressive. He hopes these experiences will help build her courage and self-confidence as she grows.
"I want my daughter to see other kids perform, speak and express themselves confidently. I hope it inspires her. I hope she becomes braver, more confident, and not afraid to show her own abilities as well," he said.
He also encouraged all parents to consistently provide supportive environments and opportunities for their children's development and future contribution to society. ■
