At some point, whether through a text, social media post, or on a sign, you’ve surely seen a bright yellow smiley face. It’s so iconic and has been used in many contexts that it may surprise you to learn that this symbol has a deeper purpose. If you’re not aware of its original meaning, you’re not alone, which is why World Smile Day was created. Today, take the opportunity to find out more about this icon and how you can celebrate it.
The Origins of the Smiley Face
The 1960s had quite a few significant political and social challenges and conflicts. During this time, an artist from in Worcester produced the first now-famous smiley face to serve as a simple symbol of kindness. Basically, he wanted to promote caring for others, no matter their differences in politics, religion, ethnicity, economic standing, and other aspects.
World Smile Day Then and Now
After a while, the smiley face’s original meaning became more muddled as corporations and companies began to use it for commercial purposes. However, in 1999, World Smile Day began, reminding people of the smiley face’s real intent. If you’d like to recognize this day, all you need to do is perform a kind act for someone else and help them smile.
Be Kind, Share a Smile
Some people believe that making a difference requires something grand. However, it is often little acts of service that make the biggest difference. In addition to doing little things like smiling and saying hello, you and your child have plenty of opportunities locally to get involved in good causes. In fact, together you can participate or donate to charities or drives that benefit kids and families right in your community. Your kindness will put a smile on not only someone else’s face but yours too!
Kindness for Your Favorite Smile
In addition to showing kindness to people outside your family, now is a good time to teach your child to be kind to themselves through self-care. If they do not take care of their own oral health, your child may be less willing to smile at others or even socialize with others. To keep their smile strong, they must brush and floss daily to avoid cavities. They also need to see a pediatric dentist, who specializes in treating children, at least every six months for a checkup and cleaning. In addition, if your child requires orthodontic treatment, getting it done sooner than later can help them enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles, but even as an adult, it is worth getting done to restore your smile and make it ready to share with others.
World Smile Day is just once a year, but its message can last all year long. So, take advantage of small chances to spread kindness and create smiles around you today!
About the Practice
As a multidisciplinary practice, Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Pelham is designed to help children from infancy through age 18 as well as adults in need of orthodontic treatment. With board-certified experts, our team has changed lives for the better. We are proud to be within the Simply Doing Good Network, which benefits communities around our practices in New England through sponsoring local sports teams, supporting schools, and holding annual donation drives. If you’d like to learn how you can help, get in touch with us here or call us at 603-635-1166.