Every Act Counts: Make a Difference for a Child This July

July is National Make a Difference to Children Month, a powerful reminder that we all have the ability — and responsibility — to positively shape the life of a child. Whether it’s a word of encouragement, a moment of attention, or a lifelong commitment to advocacy, every act counts.

Started in 2006 by child advocate Kim Ratz, this month invites us to reflect on a question that reframes the challenge: It’s not how many children need help, but how many of us are willing to help at least one.

Why This Month Matters: The Reality for Children Today

Children are often celebrated as “the future,” yet many live with challenges that compromise their health, safety, and sense of belonging. In the U.S. and around the world:

• Millions face undiagnosed health conditions.

• Many grow up without stable homes or access to supportive adults.

• Others suffer from emotional neglect, bullying, or isolation.

Despite these hurdles, every child carries incredible potential — if they’re given the chance to thrive. And that’s where all of us have a role to play.

7 Simple Acts That Can Change a Child’s Life

You don’t need special training or a big budget to make a lasting impact. Here are seven small ways you can start making a difference today:

1. Share Appreciation: Tell children what you love and admire about them. Celebrate their quirks, talents, and efforts.

2. Spend Quality Time: Whether reading, playing, or just being present — your full attention sends the message: “You matter.”

3. Encourage Their Voice: Let children express themselves, make choices, and speak up. It builds confidence and self-worth.

4. Model Empathy and Kindness: Let them see you care for others — and involve them in helping, donating, or volunteering.

5. Create Rituals of Connection: Morning hugs. Bedtime stories. Weekly traditions. These moments create security and joy.

6. Support Their Passions: Help children explore their interests and connect them with learning or service opportunities.

7. Build Community Bonds: Invite them to join local projects or write cards for children in hospitals — let them experience the joy of giving.

These may seem like small gestures, but they can shape a child’s identity, resilience, and worldview for years to come.

Partnering for Greater Impact: The Work of CAFF

For children facing hidden health challenges, particularly airway disorders, early intervention can be life-changing. That’s the mission of Children’s Airway First Foundation (CAFF) — an organization founded by parents who lived through the consequences of a missed diagnosis.

CAFF is on the front lines of a preventable health crisis. Their goal is simple but bold: to end the global epidemic of pediatric airway disorders by ensuring every child receives early screening, evaluation, and treatment — ideally before age six.

Through education, advocacy, and professional training, CAFF empowers both families and healthcare providers to take early, informed action.

This July, Be the Difference

National Make a Difference to Children Month is more than a celebration — it’s a call to action.

• Reach out to a child who seems lonely or withdrawn.

• Share this message with parents, caregivers, or educators.

• Support CAFF by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading awareness.

  
  

Choose one child. One action. Start today.

Let’s make July a month of compassion, action, and hope — for the children in our lives, and for children everywhere.