Everybody has rights, including children. Some of these rights are set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and are also part of Scottish law. But what are children’s rights and how can we as parents and carers help support them? What can we do if we feel our children's rights are being ignored? And what do we tell our kids when they say they won't go to bed because they have a right to play?

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Children's rights and the UNCRC

You may have heard people speaking about children’s rights without being sure what this really means. Rights make sure we’re all treated fairly and can reach our full potential. Children have additional rights to adults. This is because children need extra protection and don’t have the independence adults do.

Mum dad and two children, one in a wheelchair, out for a walk with their dog on an autumn day
Updated: 03 Nov 2025

An introduction to children's rights
Two dads holding a sleeping baby.
Updated: 18 Mar 2025

What are my child's rights?
Dad talking to his child
Updated: 22 May 2025

Talking to your child about their rights
Mum and daughter outside in a park, both smiling and laughing
Updated: 29 Oct 2025

Help and support with children's rights
Happy toddler sitting on dad's shoulders, outdoors in a wood
Updated: 18 Mar 2025

Children's rights case studies

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