Reflection
Since the Convention on the Rights of the Child came into force in 1990, there has been a great deal of discussion and practical action to give effect to the principle embodied in Article 12 that children have a right to be listened to and taken seriously. It has become clear that children can become successfully involved in:
- Research
- Monitoring and making decisions regarding their health
- Managing their own institutions such as schools
- Evaluating services intended for younger people
- Peer representation
- Advocacy
- Project design, management, monitoring and evaluation
- Campaigning and lobbying
- Analysis and policy development
- Publicity and use of the media
- Conference participation
Their involvement can take place at all levels from the family to local communities to the international arena. However, if their participation is to be meaningful, it is imperative that their engagement is directly linked to their own first-hand experience and is identified by the children themselves as a key area of concern.
Children are rarely heard in adult arenas. What issues do you think the youth in your area would like to have a voice in?
Reflection Activity for Certificate Students
eJournal Reflection Activity 3.3 (about 20 minutes)
Log in to the Mahara ePortfolio Website. In your learning journal summarize what you think are the key areas of concern for the youth in your country. Title the entry, “Reflection Activity 3.3”
If you need help writing an eJournal, please refer to the Learning Journal. If you need help posting your reflection, please refer to the Mahara Learning Journal Guide.