Understanding children"s Rights : A guide for parents and society

Hello all of you, this is my first blog and i choose this topic because I believe that by knowing about the rights of children, we can realize our responsibilities in a better way. I will try to keep it easy.

CHILD RIGHTS: These are the human rights that apply to all individuals under the age of 18 as defined by UNCRC (united nations convention on the rights of the child ) and adopted in 1989. We can be grouped these rights into four broad categories

1. right to survival

2. right to development

3. right to protection

4. right to participation

Now we are trying to understand one by one:

1. RIGHT TO SURVIVAL:

A. Right to life: Every child has the inherent right to life and we must ensure their survival to the maximum possible extent.

B. Birth registration and identity: Children must be registered after birth, have a name, acquire a nationality & be cared by their parents.

C. Access to basic needs: includes adequate food, shelter, clothing and medical care to ensure a dignified life.

2. RIGHT TO DEVELOMENT:

A. right to education every child has the right to free primary education with secondary and higher education accessible. Education should develop personalities, talents and abilities, and prepare children for responsible citizenship.

B. right to play: children have the right to rest, relax, play and participate in cultural and creative activities.

C. cultural & religious freedom, children can use their own language, culture and religion even if these are not the majority in their country.

3. RIGHT TO PROTECTION:

A. protection from abuse & exploitation: children must be safe from neglect, abuse, trafficking, child labor, sexual exploitation, and harmful practices like child marriage female genital mutilation.

B. Juvenile justice: children in conflict the law must be treated in a manner appropriate to their age.

4. RIGHT TO PARTICIPATION:

A. Freedom of expression: children have the right to express their opinions freely on matters affecting them, and we have to give proper weight on their views according to age and maturity.

B. Access to information: children can seek and share information through media like internet, radio, books, unless it harms others.

C. Freedom of association: Children can join or form group and meet others if it dose not harm anyone. These rights apply to every child without discrimination based on race, color, sex, language, religion, disability, or other status.

Why parents should care about children"s rights:

1. Respecting rights like play and education helps children grow well.

2. can guide parents in recognizing & addressing risks like abuse or neglect.

3. Builds trust and strengthens your bond

Practical steps:

For parents and society:

1. Educate yourself and teach your child about their rights , for example what is right to safety and how to report bullying.

2. Listen actively , create space for your child to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement.

3. Advocate for their needs, ensure your child has access to quality education and health , if there is any lack, reach out to local organization or school head.

4. Teach your child about non discrimination

5. Be careful about signs of abuse and neglect

6. Speak out against practices like child marriage or child labor

Challenges: Despite global progress and so many initiatives and programs launched by government , many children face violation of their rights. Poverty , conflict , and lack of awareness can limit access to education , healthcare or safety .

India"s legal policies for child safety:

1. Right to education act 2009: Ensure free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years.

2. POCSO act 2012: Addresses sexual abuse with strict penalties and child friendly mechanism .

2. juvenile justice act 2015: Provides care and protection for children in need , including rehabilitation .

3. Child labour act 1986: Prohibits hazardous work for children under 14.

4. Nation commission for protection of child rights ( NCPCR) established in 2007: It monitors and enforces child"s rights compliance.

Lets commit to making the world a better place for our children.