Bring your child to work day: More than just a fun office tradition

A few Aprils ago, our office was unusually loud by 10 AM, not with emails or meetings, but the unmistakable sound of a toddler crashing a Zoom call and a six-year-old asking “Do you even do anything all day?” A colleague’s daughter was busily organizing sticky notes by color while someone else’s son had declared himself CEO “for the day.” Chaos? Absolutely. But also—kind of magic for adults alike .

That was our first “Bring your child to work day,” and let’s just say... it left a mark (mostly crayon). What started as a calendar checkbox for participants turned into one of our most surprisingly impactful traditions. It helped humanize colleagues, opened real conversations about parenting, and gave kids a glimpse into the mystery of what mom or dad does all day.

Sure, it’s a bit of a logistical juggle, but worth it. If done right, this day can build empathy, break down walls, and even nudge your workplace toward being more family-inclusive, not just one Thursday a year. So, if you're asking whether Bring your child to work day is still relevant? Spoiler: It's more than relevant—it’s a workplace culture cheat code hiding in plain sight.

What is take your child to work day?

Take your child to work day is a nationally recognized event where children step into their parent or guardian’s workplace to explore what adulting looks like outside of homework and chores. It usually takes place on the fourth Thursday in April and invites kids to experience a slice of the working world—right from the source, alongside other organizations .

Originally launched in 1993 as take our daughters to work day by the Ms. Foundation for Women, the initiative aimed to empower young girls by exposing them to professional environments early on. Over time, it evolved into bring your sons and daughters to work day to be more inclusive, eventually giving rise to what we casually call bring your child to work day today.

At its heart, this day is more than just a fun field trip. It’s about helping children make the connection between school, careers, and their futures, including understanding parents' daily responsibilities . It’s a moment for parents and caregivers to share their daily reality, demystify their job titles, and open up real conversations about ambition, effort, and balance.

From trying out mock tasks to simply shadowing meetings, this day creates memorable, teachable moments. Whether you call it bring your son to work day, bring your daughter to work day, or bring your kid to work day, the goal remains the same: spark curiosity and inspire the next generation, perhaps resulting in a special keepsake —no career fair required.

Why bring your child to work day matters: The purpose of this?

This isn’t just a cute office tradition. Bring your child to work day holds real purpose—it’s where education meets real-world exposure. It opens doors to learning, bonding, and shaping future mindsets in ways a classroom often can’t.

• Career awareness starts early: Kids often have a vague idea of what jobs look like—something between TV shows and cafeteria conversations. This day gives them a concrete view of the working world, helping them understand the value of skills, responsibility, and different career paths.
• It humanizes parents and caregivers: Children get to see their parent or guardian outside their usual roles. Watching them lead a meeting or solve a problem makes a big impression. It deepens respect and shows them a different, capable side of their grown-ups.
• It makes workplaces more family-inclusive: Encouraging employees to bring their children helps reinforce a culture that values work-life balance. It sends a strong signal that families aren’t distractions—they’re part of the ecosystem.
• Builds intergenerational inspiration: Children leave with stories and ideas. Seeing their parent’s or mentor’s journey can motivate them to dream bigger—or differently. It's not about cloning careers but expanding imagination.
• Supports early mentorship moments: Even a brief chat with a coworker about their role can spark curiosity. It’s a chance for informal mentoring, especially for older kids who are starting to explore interests and aspirations.
• Breaks down workplace stereotypes: Whether it's bring your daughter to work day or bring your son to work day, exposure to various roles helps challenge outdated ideas of who does what in a company. That awareness early on matters more than we realize.

Benefits of taking your child to work day

Beyond being a fun break from routine, Bring your child to work day offers meaningful benefits for both employees and their kids. It's a unique experience for students that blends learning, bonding, and workplace engagement—all in one day.

• Boosts employee morale and connection: Inviting kids into the workplace naturally brings warmth, laughter, and a shared sense of community. It creates moments where coworkers connect on a personal level, boosting morale and making the workplace feel more human.
• Encourages open conversations about work: Kids often ask the best (and funniest) questions. Their curiosity sparks honest conversations between parents and children about work, money, teamwork, and problem-solving—topics that rarely surface during school pick-up.
• Promotes empathy across departments: Seeing colleagues juggle parenting while staying productive can create deeper understanding between teams. It encourages empathy, patience, and a more flexible, supportive workplace culture.
• Gives kids a head start in soft skills: Whether it’s learning how to greet someone professionally or sit through a meeting, children get early exposure to communication, patience, and social etiquette in real-world settings.
• Provides a break from digital overload: Instead of scrolling or gaming, kids engage in face-to-face interaction, learning through observation and conversation—something screen time can’t replicate.
• Leaves lasting memories: Whether it's a tour of the office, trying out a task, or getting their own “visitor badge,” this day becomes a memory they talk about long after. It builds positive emotional ties to work and family roles.

Why smart HR teams treat this day as a culture-driving opportunity?

Bring your child to work day isn’t just about snacks and name tags—it’s a strategic HR opportunity. Thoughtful planning turns this event into a living, breathing example of what company culture actually looks and feels like.

• Reinforces company values through action: Whether your culture emphasizes inclusion, learning, or balance, this day allows teams to embody those values visibly. It’s not a slide deck—it’s kids watching those values play out in real time, often more honestly than any meeting room discussion.
• Creates emotional stickiness with employees: When employees see their children welcomed into the workplace, it sparks a deeper emotional connection with the company. It signals that they’re not just workers—they’re whole people, and their families matter too.
• Builds community beyond the cubicle: Events like this bridge gaps across departments and seniority. Seeing leaders and interns equally navigating parenthood levels the field and fosters cross-team camaraderie grounded in shared humanity.
• Drives engagement without needing a formal program: It doesn’t require a big budget or months of planning to make an impact. The sheer presence of kids at work injects energy and reminds employees of their “why”—especially in demanding roles.
• Highlights flexibility and future-readiness: Whether it’s bring your daughter to work day or bring your son to work day, the event shows how well a company can support working parents and adapt to generational needs—critical for attracting and retaining talent.

How to plan a seamless “bring your child to work day” (Without losing your mind): Do’s and Don’ts?

Planning bring your child to work day can feel like organizing a kid-friendly conference—with glitter and snack breaks. The trick? Balance structure with flexibility. Here’s your sanity-saving guide to what works (and what really doesn’t).

Do’s

• Plan age-appropriate activities: A group of 5-year-olds and a bunch of teens won’t enjoy the same agenda. Create breakout activities tailored to age groups so each child is engaged. It makes the experience smoother and way less chaotic.
• Set expectations with your team: Kids in the office shift the usual vibe, so give everyone a heads-up. Let teams know the schedule, where kids will be, and how to adjust. It helps avoid confusion, disruptions, or passive-aggressive side-eyes.
• Include everyone in planning: Don’t keep the planning limited to HR or parents alone. Ask across departments for input, even from employees without kids. This keeps ideas fresh, the event inclusive, and the buy-in strong.
• Make it hands-on, not just show-and-tell: Watching presentations gets old fast—especially for kids. Set up interactive stations where children can touch, build, or role-play a mini task. It's more fun and helps them connect with the work.
• Include snacks, breaks, and quiet spaces: Kids get overstimulated quickly, especially in unfamiliar spaces. Set up chill zones with bean bags, books, or crafts, and offer plenty of snacks. A fed, rested kid means fewer tantrums and happier parents.

Don’ts

• Don’t treat it like a regular workday: If you try to stick to business-as-usual, expect frustration all around. Adjust high workloads and avoid major meetings or deadlines. Let the day breathe so everyone enjoys it without the pressure.
• Don’t exclude remote employees: Just because they’re not on-site doesn’t mean they should miss out. Host virtual sessions, ship activity kits, or livestream events. Take your child to work day should be for everyone, not just the office crowd.
• Don’t forget to prep the kids too: Explain to your child what kind of behavior is expected at work. Set rules gently—like no screaming contests in conference rooms. A little prep keeps things smoother (and way less embarrassing).
• Don’t wing it on safety and privacy: Kids love to wander, but not all areas are safe or appropriate. Block access to restricted zones and avoid showing sensitive info. It keeps your office secure and parents worry-free.
• Don’t overlook employees without kids: No one wants to feel left out, especially during a team-focused day. Invite non-parents to join activities, lead games, or guide kids. It fosters unity and stops the event from feeling cliquey.

How is “bring your child to work day” good for teams?

You’d be surprised how much collaboration can come from a coloring table and juice boxes. Bring your child to work day doesn’t just create adorable moments—it nudges teams toward better communication, empathy, and cross-functional bonding. Here’s how the magic happens behind the crayons:

• Breaks down formal barriers and hierarchy: It’s hard to maintain a stiff upper-lip when your manager is crawling under a desk pretending to be a dinosaur. Seeing coworkers and leaders interact as parents creates relatability. That vulnerability builds trust across roles and levels.
• Encourages cross-team collaboration: Planning the event often brings together people who don’t normally work side-by-side. Marketing might partner with IT to set up virtual tours, or finance helps organize games. These casual partnerships spark camaraderie beyond the project boards.
• Builds empathy and shared understanding: Watching your coworker juggle a spreadsheet and a snack pouch gives insight into their day-to-day. It humanizes everyone. It also reminds the team that flexibility and support aren't just HR buzzwords—they’re lived realities.
• Boosts team morale through joyful moments: Shared laughter over a child’s brutally honest career questions (“So… you just sit here all day?”) lightens the mood. These moments create lasting team memories, which boosts morale far better than forced fun Fridays.
• Encourages inclusion and team bonding: With kids in the mix, the environment becomes naturally more inclusive and kind. People check in on one another, help wrangle toddlers, and offer snacks. That kind of spontaneous teamwork carries over long after the event ends.

How to plan a successful bring your child to work day?

Planning a bring your child to work day that doesn’t end in mild chaos and crayon-covered spreadsheets takes intention. From scheduling to cleanup, every step needs forethought—because once kids are involved, there’s no winging it. Here's a simple plan to make the day a win for everyone:

1. Get leadership and department buy-in: Before sending out invites, loop in leadership and department heads. Get clarity on what areas will participate and who’s comfortable hosting activities. When leadership’s on board, the tone is set from the top.
2. Pick a theme or structure for the day: Having a theme like “What My Parent Does” or “Little Innovators” helps guide your activities. It also creates consistency across departments, making the experience more engaging and focused for kids and teams alike.
3. Create age-specific activity tracks: A one-size-fits-all agenda won’t work across toddlers and teens. Break your day into age-appropriate tracks with activities suited to different developmental levels. It keeps kids engaged—and keeps parents sane.
4. Communicate clearly with parents and teams: Send out a guide covering the day’s schedule, check-in times, safety rules, and snack policies. Make sure everyone, from parents to child-free employees, knows what to expect and where to be.
5. Plan for safety, snacks, and support: Safety protocols (think: ID badges for kids, no-go zones) should be established ahead of time. Provide snacks, hydration, and volunteer support to handle any curveballs. A tired kid is cranky—snacks are strategy.

Inclusion matters: Making the day safe, welcoming & accessible for all families

If bring your child to work day is truly about connection, then it should include everyone—not just the traditional mom-dad-kid trio. Families look different, needs vary, and accessibility can’t be an afterthought. Here’s how to create a space where all families feel seen, safe, and celebrated:

• Respect all family structures: Some employees are single parents, guardians, foster parents, or part of LGBTQ+ families. Avoid assuming what a “typical” family looks like in invites or activities. Use inclusive language like “caregivers” or “grown-ups” to make everyone feel welcomed.
• Include employees who don’t have children: Not everyone is a parent—but everyone can participate. Invite non-parents to volunteer, lead sessions, or host a storytelling corner. It encourages team bonding and prevents anyone from feeling sidelined.
• Ensure activities are accessible for kids with disabilities: All children should be able to engage fully. Offer sensory-friendly rooms, wheelchair access, and materials in alternative formats. Talk to parents ahead of time to understand specific needs and adjust accordingly.
• Celebrate cultural diversity through food or crafts: Incorporate multicultural elements like art stations inspired by global traditions or snacks from different cultures. It’s a subtle way to showcase your company’s values while enriching the child experiences.
• Offer virtual options for remote families: Remote or hybrid employees shouldn’t miss out. Create a virtual track with fun activities, livestreams of office tours, or interactive games. This makes take your child to work day inclusive for all geographies.
• Provide quiet zones and flexible timing: Not every kid thrives in a busy, noisy office. Set up quiet corners with books or calming toys and allow flexible check-in/check-out times. This makes the day manageable for neurodivergent kids or those with social sensitivities.

Goals of taking your child to work day

The goal of bring your child to work day extends far beyond just a fun office day. It’s about bridging the gap between work and home, showcasing the historical role of work in shaping a child’s understanding of the world, and creating meaningful connections across generations. Here are some key goals for making the day impactful:

Introduce children to various careers and industries

A key goal is helping children explore different job roles and understand the diversity of professions. It opens their minds to career possibilities they might never have considered. Showcasing the work behind the scenes makes them see how jobs contribute to the world around them.

Foster curiosity and learning about work life

Letting kids see their parents and others in action helps demystify the adult world. It sparks curiosity about skills, tasks, and teamwork, making it easier to explain the value of education. The day encourages kids to ask questions and explore how work life fits into the bigger picture.

Strengthen family bonds through shared experiences

Experiencing work together as a family strengthens the bond between parent and child. It’s an opportunity for parents to share their world with their kids, creating mutual respect and understanding. These memories create lasting connections that go beyond the office.

Promote work-life balance and empathy

The day offers kids a chance to see their parents manage responsibilities and balance work with fun. It can foster empathy as children realize the challenges their parents face, helping to instill values like hard work, time management, and the importance of balance.

Support diversity and inclusion through exposure

It’s an opportunity to show children how workplaces are diverse and inclusive. Children get to interact with people from all walks of life, helping to cultivate a mindset of acceptance, inclusion, and collaboration in the middle early on.

Setting expectations with kids and coworkers

Clear expectations make for a smooth bring your child to work day. When everyone understands what to expect, from activities to boundaries, it creates a more enjoyable, stress-free experience for both kids and coworkers. Here’s how to set the stage for a successful day:

• Communicate the schedule in advance: Let both parents and coworkers know the day’s agenda well ahead of time. Share a timeline of planned activities, breaks, and safety rules so that everyone can prepare. Having a structured schedule ensures children—and their parents—know what’s coming up, reducing any surprises.
• Define acceptable behavior and boundaries for kids: Set clear guidelines for children’s behavior in the office. Let kids know where they can play, how to interact with others, and the importance of respecting the workspace. By setting these boundaries, children can enjoy their time while being mindful of office etiquette.
• Explain to coworkers the presence of kids: Make sure employees know what to expect when the kids arrive. Discuss how the presence of children might affect the day’s normal operations, including noise levels and interruptions. Encourage coworkers to approach the event with patience and flexibility, fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
• Be clear about work-related responsibilities: Let parents know they should be prepared to divide their time between work and their kids. Set expectations for how parents can manage both, whether through flexible meeting times or assistance from colleagues. This way, no one feels overwhelmed, and work can continue without interruption.
• Promote a mindset of support and cooperation: Emphasize the importance of teamwork during the day. Encourage employees to support each other by helping with activities, sharing resources, or supervising children when needed. This collaboration creates a stronger sense of community among coworkers.
• Clarify safety and supervision protocols: Make sure everyone is aware of the safety protocols, including check-in times, areas off-limits to children, and who to turn to in case of emergencies. This ensures everyone feels secure and confident that their children are in a safe environment while having fun.

Creative take your child to work activity ideas by age groups

Creating age-appropriate activities ensures every child has a fun and engaging experience during bring your child to work day. Tailoring activities to each age group not only keeps them entertained but also helps them learn about different careers and skills. Here are some great ideas for kids of all ages:

For ages 3–6

• Office scavenger hunt: Create a simple scavenger hunt around the office where kids can search for common office items (e.g., pens, paper, stapler). This interactive activity helps them learn about the workspace while having fun. Parents can guide them as they explore different areas.
• Crafting station: Set up a table with coloring supplies, stickers, and construction paper for a creative art station. Kids can make “thank you” cards or craft something related to the workplace. This activity encourages imagination and allows children to express their creativity.
• Story time with parents: Ask parents to read a story related to their work or a favorite children’s book. This creates a quiet and calming activity that’s perfect for younger kids. It’s also a chance for children to connect with their parents in a relaxing setting.
• Build a “Dream Job” collage: Provide magazines, scissors, and glue for kids to cut out pictures and create a collage of what they want to be when they grow up. This activity sparks curiosity about various careers and allows children to share their dreams and ideas.
• Mini office tour: Give kids a brief, interactive tour of the office. Introduce them to different departments or areas of interest, such as the kitchen or creative workspace. Keep it short and fun, highlighting elements they may recognize from home or media.

For ages 7–12

• Shadow a parent for the day: Allow kids to shadow their parents throughout the day, learning what their job involves. Give them mini tasks to help with—whether it's answering a mock phone call or sorting paperwork. This hands-on experience helps them understand their parent's work environment.
• Create a business presentation: Let kids create a short, fun presentation about a pretend business. Provide materials like paper, markers, and a computer for them to work on. At the end of the day, they can present their ideas to their parents and coworkers, learning how businesses operate in the process.
• Workplace trivia game: Develop a trivia game about the company and industry. Ask questions like, “What’s the most popular product?” or “What’s the company’s mission?” This activity teaches kids about the business while making learning enjoyable and competitive.
• Design a new product: Give kids materials like clay, markers, or cardboard to create a prototype of a new product they think the company should sell. This encourages creative thinking and problem-solving skills while introducing them to concepts like innovation and product development.
• Job role exploration with coworkers: Have kids visit different departments and meet various coworkers to learn about their roles. A brief, informal Q&A with staff members can introduce kids to a variety of careers. It’s also a great way to foster early appreciation for different job roles.

For teens

• Job shadowing with mentorship: Allow teens to shadow employees in different departments for the day. Assign them a mentor who can explain the work process, the skills needed, and the challenges faced in various roles. This offers them a deeper understanding of career opportunities and workplace dynamics.
• Create a marketing campaign: Divide teens into small groups and challenge them to develop a marketing campaign for an existing company product or a new idea. They’ll work on aspects like slogans, graphics, and social media strategies. It’s an excellent activity for learning about business and communication.
• Host a “Ted Talk”-style session: Teens can choose a topic they’re passionate about and present it to a small group of employees. This encourages public speaking, confidence, and leadership. Topics can range from their hobbies to a cause they care about, making it a great way to build communication skills.
• Problem-solving task force: Present a real workplace challenge (with appropriate confidentiality) and ask teens to brainstorm solutions. Have them present their ideas to a small group. This allows them to apply critical thinking and collaboration while gaining insight into problem-solving at work.
• Job interview simulation: Set up mock job interviews for teens to practice with employees. This activity builds their communication skills and helps prepare them for future job opportunities. Afterward, provide constructive feedback to help them improve their interviewing techniques.

7 Ideas for your take your child to work day for remote companies

For remote companies, Bring your child to work day offers a unique opportunity to engage kids with their parents' work life, even if there’s no physical office. Although the day will be virtual, it can still be fun, educational, and inclusive. Here are seven creative ideas to make the day exciting for kids, all while keeping them engaged and connected with the company culture.

1. Virtual office tour: Kick off the day with a virtual tour of each parent's home office. Parents can walk kids through their workspace via video call, showing where they work and explaining the tools they use. This gives children a chance to visually connect with their parent’s job while fostering an understanding of a professional environment.
2. Parent-child Q&A session: Host a live Q&A session where kids ask their parents about their roles and the work they do. Simple questions like “What do you do at work?” or “Why do you love your job?” will help children understand their parent's professional life. This interactive session is a fun way to introduce kids to the world of work and foster communication.
3. Create a digital collage: Have the kids create a digital collage to represent their understanding of what their parent’s job entails. They can use Canva or other simple design tools to gather images, symbols, or words related to their parent's industry. This activity sparks creativity and helps them conceptualize work in an engaging way.
4. Virtual team introductions: Organize a virtual meeting where employees can introduce their kids to the rest of the team. Each child can share a fun fact about themselves, such as their favorite hobby or what they want to be when they grow up. This promotes team bonding and gives kids a chance to meet the people their parent works with every day.
5. Workplace scavenger hunt: Set up a virtual scavenger hunt where kids search for specific items around their home office. Create a list of items like “something blue,” “a pencil,” or “a notebook,” and have the kids race to find them. This keeps them active and engaged, while subtly introducing them to the organizational tools of work.
6. Design a logo or company mascot: Encourage kids to design a new company logo or mascot. Using digital drawing tools or paper and crayons, they can let their creativity run wild. Not only does this activity help kids understand branding and design, but it also offers a fun way for them to participate in a key business process.
7. Storytelling and creative writing: Ask kids to write a short story based on their parent's job. They can create a fictional story where their parent is the hero who solves problems or helps others. This fun exercise encourages imagination while teaching them about the value of communication and problem-solving in the workplace.

Measuring the impact: How HR can track sentiment & ROI

Tracking the impact of bring your child to work day helps human resources gauge the event's success and its return on investment (ROI). By measuring sentiment and engagement, HR can evaluate how the event contributes to employee morale, company culture, and productivity. Here are five ways HR can track sentiment and ROI for the event.

• Employee surveys and feedback: Send out surveys after the event to gather employee opinions. Ask questions about enjoyment, engagement, and any suggestions for improvement. This helps HR measure the emotional impact of the event and identify areas for future enhancements.
• Tracking employee engagement and participation: Monitor how many employees participated in different activities during the day. High participation levels can show strong interest and satisfaction. It also helps HR see what activities were most engaging for employees and their families.
• Monitoring post-event employee productivity: Observe if there's a noticeable change in employee performance after the event. Increased focus or motivation could signal that the event positively impacted morale. Tracking productivity can help HR determine if the event sparked a boost in overall employee engagement.
• Analyzing social media sentiment: Look at social media and internal communication channels for mentions of the event. Positive posts and shared experiences can highlight how employees felt about the day. This provides a public sentiment analysis of the event's impact.
• Employee retention and loyalty: Measure employee retention rates after the event. If fewer employees leave the company post-event, it can be a sign of stronger loyalty. Events that promote family and work balance can increase long-term employee satisfaction and reduce turnover.

Post-event ideas to keep the momentum going

After Bring your child to work day, it’s important to maintain the positive energy and connection that the event sparked. Keeping the momentum alive helps reinforce the values of work-life balance, inclusion, and company culture. Here are seven ideas to continue the excitement and engagement after the event.

• Create a photo album or highlight reel: Compile photos and videos from the event into a digital album or a highlight reel. Sharing this with employees afterward keeps the event's memories alive and reinforces the sense of community. It also serves as a great reminder of the company’s culture and the fun moments shared.
• Host a follow-up virtual check-in: Organize a virtual follow-up meeting or social hour to discuss the event and hear additional feedback. This gives employees the chance to reflect on their experience and offer suggestions. It’s also a great way to keep the conversation going about family-friendly company initiatives.
• Share employee stories: Feature employee stories about their bring your child to work day experience in internal newsletters or on the company’s website. Sharing heartfelt or funny moments can keep the connection strong and inspire others to participate in future events. It also humanizes the workplace and strengthens employee bonds.
• Offer family-focused initiatives: Roll out family-oriented perks or initiatives that employees can benefit from year-round. For example, offer flexible hours for parents or create a family day initiative. Continuing this support shows that the company values employees’ family lives, not just on special days.
• Start a company-wide initiative for children: Launch a new program or challenge for kids based on what they learned during the event. For example, you could start a "Kidpreneur" competition where children design a business idea. This keeps the creative energy flowing and involves employees' families in the company culture.
• Encourage mentorship with younger generations: Encourage employees to become mentors to younger family members, sharing their work experiences and offering advice. This could be formalized through a mentorship program or informal check-ins. It strengthens cross-generational connections within the company while fostering leadership and guidance.
• Plan a follow-up event for the next year: Set the stage for next year’s event by involving employees in the planning process. Solicit ideas for new activities, themes, or ways to enhance the day. This gives employees a sense of ownership and excitement about the future, making the event something to look forward to every year.

Safety, privacy, and inclusion considerations for bringing your child to work day

Planning Bring Your Child to Work Day goes beyond fun and snacks—it requires thoughtful steps to make sure all children and employees feel safe, respected, and included. When the basics of safety and privacy are covered, it creates space for everyone to enjoy the day fully. Here’s what to keep in mind before opening the office doors to little guests.

• Conduct a child-friendly safety audit: Walk through the workplace with a parent’s eye. Secure sharp edges, cover electrical outlets, and block access to restricted areas. Prepare for different age groups to prevent accidents.
• Set clear privacy boundaries: Let employees know to tidy up desks and shut sensitive screens. Kids might wander or get curious, so reinforce boundaries around confidential areas. Share a quick reminder about data protection.
• Offer accessibility accommodations: Ensure kids with disabilities have access to elevators, ramps, and restrooms. Provide sensory-friendly spaces if needed. Inclusive planning ensures all children feel part of the day.
• Assign buddy employees or volunteers: Designate team members as child guides or activity leads. This keeps things structured and safe. It also lets parents participate without being on constant supervision duty.
• Create a photo and video consent system: Let parents opt in or out of photography. Use wristbands or stickers to identify preferences. Be transparent about how any images will be used or shared.
• Respect diverse family structures: Use inclusive language in invites and materials. Recognize that not all children live with both parents or have traditional family setups. Make everyone feel seen and welcome.

Tips for a successful take your child to work day

Bring your child to work day can be a fun and memorable event when planned with care and consideration. By following some key tips, you can ensure the day runs smoothly and leaves a lasting positive impression on both employees and their children. Here are the top tips to make the event a success.

• Plan age-appropriate activities: Ensure that activities are tailored to different age groups so all kids are engaged. Younger children might enjoy hands-on activities like arts and crafts, while older kids may prefer more interactive experiences, such as job shadowing. This approach ensures everyone has a great time.
• Communicate clearly with employees: Provide clear guidelines on what to expect, what to bring, and how to prepare for the event. This includes setting expectations for behavior and safety protocols. Clear communication helps avoid confusion and ensures that both employees and their children feel comfortable throughout the day.
• Create a structured schedule: Plan out the day's events with enough flexibility to allow for breaks and spontaneous fun. A structured schedule prevents chaos and allows employees to balance their work responsibilities with the event. This keeps the day enjoyable and productive for everyone involved.
• Have plenty of snacks and refreshments: Kids can get hungry or thirsty, so make sure to have plenty of snacks and drinks available. Offer a variety of options, including healthy choices, to keep everyone energized and satisfied. Having refreshments on hand ensures that kids stay happy and comfortable throughout the day.
• Ensure safety and supervision: Prioritize safety by ensuring there are enough adults to supervise the children. Consider having dedicated staff members or volunteers to monitor activities and ensure the kids are safe. This not only protects the children but also reassures parents that their kids are in good hands.
• Make the day inclusive and welcoming: Ensure the event is inclusive of all family types and children with different needs. Create a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable and valued. Whether it’s through accessible activities or ensuring diverse representation, inclusivity helps everyone feel included.
• Follow up with feedback: After the event, collect feedback from both employees and their children. This can help you identify what worked well and what could be improved. By gathering feedback, you can make the next Bring your child to work day Day even better and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Bring your child to work day is more than just a fun event; it's an opportunity to strengthen your company's culture, engage employees, and foster connections between work and family life. By planning thoughtful activities, setting clear expectations, and ensuring inclusivity, you can create a meaningful experience for both employees and their children.

The positive impact from such events extends far beyond the day itself, boosting morale and promoting a healthier work-life balance. As you plan your next event, consider tools like CultureMonkey to gather employee feedback and measure the success of your initiatives. With the right resources and approach, bring your child to work day can become a highlight of your company’s cultural calendar.

FAQs

1. Is take your child to work day still a thing?

Yes, take your child to work day is still widely observed, typically on the fourth Thursday of April each year. The event continues to provide young people with a firsthand experience of the professional world. Many companies organize activities and workshops to help children explore career possibilities and understand the importance of work in society.

2. Can you do a remote take your child to work day?

Yes, a remote take your child to work day is possible. Virtual events can include interactive online workshops, job shadowing through video calls, and presentations. Employees can introduce their children to their work environment via video, showcase their tasks, and engage in virtual learning activities. Remote events allow families to participate no matter their location.

3. Is it a national holiday or just a company event?

Take your child to work day is not a national holiday. It is an annual event organized by companies and organizations. Participation is voluntary, and it is typically an initiative aimed at fostering career exploration and education for children. Some companies may offer it as a fun, educational opportunity for employees' children.

4. Can employees without kids participate in any way?

Yes, employees without children can still participate in take your child to work day in various ways. They can volunteer to assist with activities or share insights into their school careers. Some companies encourage all employees to contribute by offering mentorship or leading virtual sessions, providing an inclusive and educational experience for all staff.

5. What age group is bring your child to work day for?

Bring your child to work day is typically geared toward children aged 8-18. While the exact age range can vary by company, this event is designed to introduce children to the professional world and allow them to explore potential career paths. It often includes age-appropriate activities to keep children engaged and informed.