Niagara is celebrating National Child Day to recognize the  Niagara Children's Charter of Rights and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child states that children should have a voice in all matters that affect them, in accordance with their age and maturity (Article 12). Opportunities should be created where children can meaningfully participate alongside adults, particularly in decision-making.

The right to survival, as referred to in Articles 6, 9, 18, 24-27, 31, and 41, of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, is the theme for Niagara's third National Child Day Poetry Celebration.  The Right to Survival includes basic needs such as food and shelter, standard of living, and health. 

This celebration seeks participation from all Niagara students in Grades 4 through 8, to express commitment and/or contributions to children's rights through poetry.  This year, Kindergarten-Grade 3 students were also invited to participate by developing a poster on the same theme.  Selected poems from local students will be read before Regional Council on November 6, 2008 and posters wll be on display.  

You can take part in National Child Day by planning or participating in activities that call attention to the importance of children's rights and celebrate all children. Visit the links below for resources and information to help you get started.  If you are planning an activity to celebrate National Child Day, please contact us to promote your event in our calendar.

2008 National Child Day Poetry Submissions

ECCDC's Resource Reference Listing for Children's Rights
Niagara Children's Charter of Rights Brochure - English
Niagara Children's Charter of Rights Brochure - French
Sample Media Release
Sample Letter for Dignitaries
Canadian Child Care Federation Resources
"Celebrate National Child Day - In Sneakers! Activities that Promote Children's Rights"
Health Canada