Our Rights!: Stories and Poems About Children's Rights
What’s inside...
This collection of stories and poems, endorsed by Amnesty International, features contributions from prizewinning and internationally acclaimed authors. Each piece highlights different rights of children as declared by the United Nations, covering the right to life, survival and development, protection from violence and abuse, education, and the right to express opinions and be listened to. Notable contributors include Cathy Cassidy, Maisie Chan, and Benjamin Zephaniah, among others. The collection is curated by Jake Hope, a leading authority on contemporary children’s literature.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
240 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What rights do you think every child should have? Why do you find those important?
Can you think of a story or poem from the book that made you feel empowered or inspired?
How do you feel when you see characters in the book standing up for their rights?
What is one right you would fight for? How would you do it?
How can we help other children around the world who may not have the rights they deserve?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, read the book together with your child and encourage them to express their initial thoughts or emotions about the stories and poems.
Acknowledge your child's feelings and reinforce the importance of each right discussed in the book to cultivate a deep understanding.
Use examples from the book or real-life scenarios to illustrate the impact of having or not having certain rights, making the conversation relatable.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the scenarios presented in the book, asking how they would feel or react in similar situations.
Prompt your child to come up with ways they can advocate for their rights and the rights of others in their daily lives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Equality
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of equality through diverse stories and poems, showcasing how every child, regardless of their background, has rights.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by respecting and valuing differences among their peers, promoting inclusivity in their interactions at school and in play.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: Various characters in the stories advocate for their right to education, illustrating how learning can empower them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value their education and understand its role in shaping their future, motivating them to actively participate in learning activities.
Example Lesson: Freedom of Expression
Explanation: Characters express themselves freely through words and actions, underscoring the significance of having a voice.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their thoughts and feelings in a constructive manner, enhancing communication skills and self-confidence both at home and in school.
Example Lesson: Right to Safety
Explanation: Stories highlight the environments where children feel safe and protected, emphasizing the importance of security for every child.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to recognize safe spaces and understand when and how to seek help if they feel unsafe, fostering a sense of security in everyday life.