Governments must make sure that every child has the rights that are listed in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. They can do this by passing laws or taking other action, including making sure that the rights in the Convention are widely known in the country. However, people who work for the government, like police officers, teachers, health and social workers, are often responsible for day-to-day duties.
The Convention also emphasizes the important role of society, communities, and families in promoting and protecting children's rights. It's essential for all adults, especially those working for the government, to recognise their duty to protect your rights. For example, if there's cyberbullying at your school, they need to be ready to help make sure that technology is a positive and creative experience for everyone in their community.
You can play a role here by talking to the adults in your life about the digital world. Here are five exciting things to discuss with them about your rights online:
1️⃣ Just like adults, every child has rights that enable them to live happily, healthily, and safely. Regardless of their background, location, or beliefs, children universally have offline and online rights!
2️⃣ Everybody is responsible for protecting children's rights, and making sure their best interests are met is a top priority. This responsibility falls on parents, caregivers, teachers, and local and national governments. Social media companies, website operators, and gaming platforms also have a role to play. All these people and organizations should help when something goes wrong.
3️⃣ Children usually understand the online world well, so it can be helpful to regularly seek children and young people’s thoughts and advice. This can assist parents, teachers, and other adults in finding better solutions. Children’s views and experiences are important!
4️⃣ It's important for grown-ups to have honest talks with kids about who they talk to and how, and who can see what they share online. This helps them stay safe. Explain that everything they put online – like pictures, videos, comments, and things they share with others, as well as what others post and share about them – leaves behind information that others can use to cause trouble.
5️⃣ Adults must know how to help a child or young person if needed. This implies heck in with them often, listen without judgment, and help them find useful and interesting resources online, and make positive connections with others. If children are not comfortable talking to someone they know, there are local helplines to talk to a professional counselor.
We've also put together some helpful resources for teachers, parents, and other trusted adults. These materials offer useful tips to develop interesting lessons and engage in meaningful discussions with children and young people about navigating the digital world. Let’s take a deeper dive below!