Children have specific rights that must be respected by the state and society in order for them to thrive. These include the right to a safe and secure environment, adequate food, healthcare, and education. It is also a child’s right to not be exploited, physically or emotionally. In addition, a child must be provided with the opportunity to have their voice heard and to be protected from harm. These rights apply to all children, regardless of their status.

There is a large body of law, both treaty and soft legal rules (sometimes called “human rights”) that recognizes the particular needs and circumstances of children. This has led to the development of a number of specific rights for children, in recognition of their vulnerability and youth. These are recognized in the Declaration on the Rights of the Child, adopted following the First World War, as well as other international instruments and national laws.

Children must be protected from all forms of violence and abuse, including physical and emotional abuse, neglect, discrimination, exploitation and trafficking. They must also have access to education that is adapted to their age, abilities and learning styles, as well as the right to health care. This includes preventative and curative healthcare, as well as treatment for mental illness. Children are also entitled to have their voices heard, and they should be provided with the right to education that prepares them for responsible life in a spirit of understanding, peace, equality and friendship among all nations and peoples.

In addition, children must be guaranteed a safe place to live and the right to grow up free from disease, hunger, malnutrition, environmental degradation, harmful chemicals and radioactive substances. They must be able to enjoy their own culture, art, rest and leisure activities, as well as be free from any form of forced labour or servitude. Children are also entitled to freedom of movement and association, as well as a right to privacy.

Children are guaranteed due process when they are charged with a crime and must be given the chance to defend themselves against accusations. They are entitled to an independent expert or guardian ad litem who can help them advocate for their best interests in court. Children are also entitled to a fair trial, and they must be able to have the support of family, friends and other advocates in their defense.

Many parents are concerned about the growing number of studies showing that children without children have better overall health, especially in developed countries. One of the main reasons is that having kids can add to a person’s stress and can even cause them to become less productive at work. However, having children also comes with a number of benefits, including increased job satisfaction and better wellbeing. Children can also provide the perfect testing ground for new ideas. In fact, children’s ideas are often more creative than adults’. They have an uncanny ability to spot problems with existing products or services and can come up with ways to improve them.