On March 8, 2026, the Research and Training Centre for Community Development (RTCCD), in coordination with the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour and the Thanh Hoa Provincial Federation of Labour, organized a Parent-Child Bonding Day combined with a seminar celebrating International Women’s Day at Sakurai Vietnam Co., Ltd. in Thanh Hoa Province.
[1]
The activity was implemented as part of the No-VAC Project, “Together for Change: Creating a Violence-Free Environment for Children of Industrial Zone Workers in Thanh Hoa Province”, funded by the United Nations Fund (UNF) and the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).
The program was attended by Mr. Luong Trong Thanh – Chairman of the Thanh Hoa Provincial Federation of Labour, along with representatives of trade unions, company leaders, and nearly 100 parents and their children aged 10–18.
Organizing the program on International Women’s Day brought special significance. Beyond honoring the contributions of women in the workforce, the event highlighted the important roles of both mothers and fathers in building a positive and supportive family environment for their children.
Family bonding – a foundation for workforce stability
During the seminar, participants reflected on the proud traditions of Vietnamese women and shared real-life stories about family life, parenting, and balancing work with personal responsibilities. For many workers in industrial zones—especially those working in shifts—maintaining close relationships with their children, particularly teenagers, remains a major challenge.
[2]
The Parent-Child Bonding Day was therefore designed as a meaningful space where families could come together, participate in experiential activities, share emotions, and practice positive communication skills. Through interactive games, message-writing activities, and group discussions, many parents realized the importance of listening to, supporting, and understanding their children during adolescence.
Creating opportunities for mutual understanding
Throughout the program, families engaged in various experiential activities such as group games, emotional sharing, writing messages to one another, and mini-workshops on the “5 love languages.” Though simple, these activities created valuable opportunities for parents and teenagers to express thoughts and feelings that are often difficult to communicate in daily life.
Many parents shared that they came to understand that their children need not only material care, but also emotional connection, respect, and active listening.
[3]
One female worker reflected: “As a working mother, I sometimes only remind my child to study without asking how they feel. After today, I realize I need to change to become closer to my child.”
For teenagers, one of the greatest joys is simply being with their parents in a space free from academic or work pressures.
Bringing parenting support directly to the workplace
The program at Sakurai Vietnam Co., Ltd. is one of a series of activities designed specifically for industrial zone workers. Delivering the program directly at the workplace makes it easier for employees to access knowledge on parenting skills, family communication, and mental health care.
The participation of provincial trade union leaders, along with strong engagement from businesses and workers, reflects the growing demand for initiatives that support workers’ families.
Parent-Child Bonding Day is not only a one-time celebratory activity but is increasingly recognized as an effective model with tangible impact. By strengthening family relationships, the program contributes to building a more humane, stable, and sustainable living and working environment in industrial zones.