Promoting the rights and responsibilities of children: a South Australian example.
In 2014, the Parafield Gardens Children's Centre for Early Childhood Development and Parenting was recognised as a Global Peace School - Early Years (GPSEY). During the recognition process, a project promoting the rights and responsibilities of children and families was facilitated. Partnering with children and families in decision making was a project priority. Young children had an active role in decision making. Through age-appropriate activities and discussions, children and families developed deeper understanding of child rights, peace building, global awareness and social inclusion. Educational staff were supported to enhance this child rights focus. A GPSEY recognition celebration acknowledged child rights and the community's cultural diversity. The outcome of GPSEY recognition is significant but the process that fostered community ownership, participation and social inclusion is worth noting. Involving children in decision making and development promotes their rights and responsibilities; this can make a positive difference for children locally, and globally.
1. Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Science, University of South Australia, Australia.
Emma
E
George
1. Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Science, University of South Australia, Australia.
Casey
C
Schmidt
1. Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Science, University of South Australia, Australia.
Grace
G
Vella
2. Parafield Gardens Children's Centre for Early Childhood Development and Parenting, Australia.
Imelda
I
McDonagh
D001315:Australia; D002648:Child; D002651:Child Advocacy / Q000523:psychology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003657:Decision Making; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010287:Parent-Child Relations; D016487:Parenting / Q000523:psychology*; D016730:Program Development; D012919:Social Behavior; D012944:Social Support
capacity building (including competencies); children; education (including health education); human rights; social capital