A child is a human being who is between birth and puberty, i.e. the teenage years, although adolescence may start before this age in some cultures. Children have many rights, but they also face many challenges – from discrimination and exploitation to limited access to education and healthcare.

Children are little humans with all the usual traits: generosity, belligerence, affection, jealousy, selfishness and friendship – just like adults. What sets them apart, though, is their innocence. Two children might fight bitterly over a ball, but the next moment they will be sharing a cookie. This value of empathy can help them to resolve conflict and build strong relationships with other people, both their friends and acquaintances.

One of the best ways to teach children is to be a good role model. When children see that their parents love them, respect them and have high expectations of them, they learn to value hard work, achievement and self-respect. Children learn the most when they are engaged and enjoying their learning. To create a positive classroom atmosphere, teachers should take the time to listen to and answer children’s questions, offer encouragement and praise their efforts.

In the same way that you can encourage children to be determined by showing your own persistence and determination, you can teach them resilience – the ability to overcome obstacles and bounce back from setbacks. Resilient children are more likely to stick with a task, even when it is difficult or boring, and will be less likely to give up in the face of failure.

Children need to be able to express their views and feelings without fear of being hurt or judged. They should be encouraged to use their freedom of speech to discuss issues that affect them, and adults should listen and take them seriously.

It is also important for children to be able to play, relax and spend time with their family. This includes having time to do their hobbies and taking part in cultural activities, such as music and art. Children are also entitled to a safe and healthy environment, including food, shelter and medical care. They must be protected from harmful drugs and from sexual exploitation – such as being forced to have sex or making sexual pictures and films of them – and from violence at home, at school and in the community.

It is important for everyone to understand and protect the rights of children, regardless of their age, race, language, religion or beliefs. This commitment is reflected in the rapid worldwide acceptance of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which was ratified by more countries in less time than any other international treaty in history. This demonstrates a global recognition that all children have a fundamental right to life, security and well-being. The Convention also outlines how governments should ensure that these rights are respected and implemented. In order to promote and protect children’s rights, all governments need to implement a holistic approach to child protection, which includes tackling discrimination and exploitation and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to gain a quality education.