Children are encouraged to do one kind deed instead.
An Taoiseach
Micheál Martin has declared today, Thursday 24 March to be a "no homework day" for the children of Ireland.
In an address from Washington, the Fianna Fáil leader said that Ireland would mark National Confidence Day by rewarding its children with an afternoon off, and encouraged them to do "one kind deed" instead.
He told children to "believe" in themselves and their abilities.
Mr Martin said: "There is so much more we can all achieve if we believe in ourselves more and I’m asking you to believe in yourself today and every day.
"I’ve been speaking to your teachers, and they’re happy to let you off your homework for one day."
He added: "All you have to do is one kind deed instead of your homework. That could be looking out for a friend, looking after someone in your family. It's up to you. You choose. So please enjoy."
Children across schools in Ireland today will be shown a video entitled I Believe in Me by Starcamp to mark the occasion and to encourage confidence in children.
The show will include contributions from Rory O'Connor (Rory's Stories), Colette Fitzpatrick, Will Sliney, and Keith Barry.
Aideen O'Grady, who is the director of
Starcamp said: "This show was created for children who have had a harrowing two years, we want to give children confidence and self-esteem building tips that will stay with them for life."
Ahead of the show, Rory O'Connor addressed the children of Ireland, saying: "You should never compare yourself to anyone else, the sun and the moonrise at different times but both are equally important."
The decision to create the show to mark National Confidence Day came after Starcamp carried out a survey which found that 50% of Irish parents found that their children became less sociable following the pandemic and 43% reported feeling new concerns and anxieties.
Feature image: Julien Behal / RollingNews.ie
