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Children’s Rights in Canada

Children’s Rights in Canada

Every November 20th is World Children’s Day. It marks the day the UN Convention on the Rights of a Child was adopted, and is a day on which we can learn more about children’s rights. Keep reading to learn more about children’s rights and to find programs for kids in Burnaby.

Convention on the Rights of a Child

All of the rights in the Convention on the Rights of a Child apply within Canada. A child is defined as someone under the age of 18, and these rights apply to all children. Overall, these rights help all children reach their full potential. Some of the key points of the Convention on the Rights of the a Child are:

  • Adults should do what’s best for children. When an adult makes a decision, they should think about how it could affect children.
  • Adults should help children learn their rights.
  • Children have the right to be protected from being hurt or mistreated, physically, emotionally, and mentally. 
  • Children have the right to choose their own religion and beliefs. They can practice their culture, language, and religion. 
  • Children have the right to be protected from work that is harmful to their education or their health. For those that choose to work, they have the right to be safe and paid fairly. 
  • Adults should take care of children and protect them from harm. 
This video by UNICEF, made for kids ages 3-6, helps kids learn their rights

Canada also has two other ‘optional’ children’s rights. The first is that people under the age of 18 can’t directly participate in war or be conscripted. Conscription is when the government makes military service mandatory. The second is that child prostitution, child pornography, and the sale of children are all illegal. 

Rights of Young People in Care

There are special rights for young people in care, and you can find these in the poster. Additionally, all of the rights in the Convention on the Rights of the Child still apply to young people in care. BC has also made this guide on the rights of young people in care. Overall, these focus on the health (both mentally and physically) of young people in care. 

Resources and Programs for Kids in Burnaby

The Convention on the Rights of a Child is meant to help children thrive. To help your child and the children you know develop their potential, we’ve gathered some resources that you can access in Burnaby. 

Want to learn more about family literacy and how parents and caregivers can help children flourish? Check out our page on family literacy!