Our Rights: How kids are changing the world (Kids Making a Difference 2013, 2)
#2 in Kids Making A Difference Series
on Goodreads (43)
What’s inside...
This book showcases the inspiring stories of children from around the world who have become social activists, fighting for human rights and social justice. It features main profiles of ten children and additional sidebars on over a dozen others who are making a difference in various ways. Issues covered include gender and class bias, child labor, homelessness, aboriginal rights, human trafficking, and child soldiers. The book also includes the full United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and provides tips for how kids can get involved in activism.
Discussion points
What is one right that you think is important for every child to have?
Can you think of a time when you or someone you know stood up for their rights? What happened?
How do you think having certain rights can change a child’s life?
Which story in the book inspired you the most and why?
If you could change one thing in the world for kids, what would it be and how would you do it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on a story from the book to model reflective thinking.
Praise your child for their thoughts and ideas, reinforcing that their opinions are valuable.
Connect the stories to real-life events or news that are age-appropriate to make the discussion relevant.
Encourage your child to think of ways they can make a difference, even in small ways, in their community.
Ask follow-up questions that prompt deeper thinking and connect emotions to the stories shared in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of individual action
Explanation: The book showcases various stories of young individuals actively making a difference in their communities, demonstrating that age does not limit one's ability to effect change.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in community service or start their own small projects to address issues they care about.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Through narratives of kids collaborating to achieve common goals, the book highlights the effectiveness of working together.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in group activities at school or in their community, enhancing their ability to cooperate and collaborate with others.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The characters in the book face challenges but continue to strive towards their goals, which teaches children the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn to stay committed to their tasks or goals, whether in their academic pursuits or personal projects, even when they encounter obstacles.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The stories include diverse perspectives and problems from around the world, broadening children's understanding and empathy towards others.
Real-World Application: This can help children learn to appreciate and embrace differences among their peers and in their broader community.
Example Lesson: Civic responsibility
Explanation: The book enlightens children about their role in society and the importance of civic engagement from a young age.
Real-World Application: This informs children on the significance of being active participants in their community through voting, volunteering, or staying informed about local issues.