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Having a say
7-12
years
old
What does this mean?
It’s your right to have a say about things that matter to you, and for adults to take it seriously.
The UNCRC says so.
Adults should listen to you but they don’t always have to do what you say.
Sometimes, what you would like isn’t what is best for you.
Beth’s story
Hey, I’m Beth and I’m ten. They just built a new playground in my area and it was so cool because the adults asked us what we wanted it to be like! They weren’t able to use all of our ideas – some weren’t safe or included every child. But they really listened to us and now we have a rainbow playground with a big slide!
Adults who work with children like teachers, social workers, doctors should listen to children, especially if they are making decisions about children.
In some primary schools, there are student councils that let you have your say. Youth groups like Comhairle na nÓg ask children about how things are run in their community.
When judges are making decisions in court cases about family life, they ask what children think in a way that they understand. They should take what you have to say seriously.
The government should also ask you what you think when making new rules about your life.
Fun Fact!
Listening to children is the biggest part of the Ombudsman for Children’s job!
Children and young people are the most important people we talk to about children’s rights and we go all around the country to hear about their lives. In 2022, we talked to 5515 children. You can read about it here.
Rights
that help you get all your rights
All different, All equal
Doing what’s best for children
Having a say
Find out
about your rights!
7-12 years old
13-17 years old