Children are young humans who have yet to develop the cognitive and volitional capacities of adults. However, they do have the capacity to make some decisions, share feelings and experiences, and interact with others. They also have the right to be protected from harm. Among the rights children have are the ability to talk, the right to freedom of religion, and the right to participate in cultural activities.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) provides an exemplary statement of the many rights granted to children. Article 1 defines the child as “a human being below the age of 18.” These rights are the same as those enjoyed by adult humans. In other words, they are the right to life, the right to express opinions, the right to privacy, and the right to have an official record of their identity.
There are different theories and arguments about whether or not children have these fanciful rights. Some say they do, while others argue that they do not. Despite the debate, there are some general principles of how to protect children. First and foremost, laws must be put in place to protect children from abuse and neglect. They must also protect them from sexual exploitation and harmful drugs.
Some argue that children do not have a right to do certain things that adults do, such as drink alcohol, vote, or join the army. Others claim that children have no right to refuse medical treatment or die in the armed forces. Regardless, it is not wise to give children adult rights. This is bad for their future as well as society.
For the sake of clarity, however, it is a good idea to discuss these differences with your kids. If you have a younger child, it’s especially important to ensure that they know how to behave appropriately. It’s also a good idea to talk about the importance of family values. Moreover, you should listen to your children. A discussion about ethics and integrity can prepare your children for real-life situations.
Unlike the adults of the world, children do not have the experience or knowledge to make decisions wisely. Their choices, however, will affect their lives for years to come. Therefore, the best course of action is to teach them how to make smart choices. Similarly, you should ensure that they have the best opportunities to reach their full potential.
While some argue that children have no special rights, other people point out the fact that they are still human beings. Thus, they deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Hence, there are many different types of laws in place to protect children from all forms of exploitation, including child labor.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that some of these laws are a bit more complex than others. But, in the end, all of them are intended to keep children safe. One example is the United States’ prohibition against the sale of alcohol to children. Another is the ban on putting children in prison.