November 20, 2026 is National Child Day! On this special day, we recognize and celebrate that every child is valuable and is an individual deserving both of human rights and of specific rights for little ones (UNICEF: Child rights and why they matter). When we talk about children's rights, we think about three broad categories: the right to be safe, the right to be healthy, and the right to be yourself and be heard (National Child Day).
The Right to Be Safe
Every child deserves to grow up in a nurturing environment where they feel physically and emotionally safe. Being safe includes the right to survive, as well as protection from abuse, discrimination, and other forms of harm. Communities thrive when their members—especially their youngest members—are given the ability to grow and learn in a safe space.
The Right to Be Healthy
Growing up in a healthy environment includes access to food, clean water, shelter, healthcare, education, and opportunities to play. The adults in a community and governing bodies should step in to provide access to these resources if necessary.
The Right to Be Yourself and Be Heard
Children have the right to use their own language, practice their religion, and have their own culture. They also deserve to have a voice in decisions that impact them, as children often feel the strongest impact of bigger decisions and are often limited in their response.
Learning More
To explore the full list of children's rights, access the child-friendly version of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
For hands-on activities for kids, join us at the Strathcona County Library for National Child Day on November 20. Our free, drop-in programs are National Child Day: Little Hands, Big Ideas (for ages birth - 5) and National Child Day: Own Your Awesome (for kindergarten - grade 6).
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