Allowing children’s voices to be heard

A core principle of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is that children and young people have the right to express their opinions freely. The participation of children is an important part of any community development activity. When given the chance to participate, children learn to communicate their opinions and make decisions. It also helps them develop a sense of belonging and accept responsibility. At SPM we encourage our local partners to provide safe, meaningful and appropriate ways to include the voices of children in their activities.

Our partner CCM has a suggestion box at their school and the children are encouraged to put in ideas, suggestions as well as their concerns into the box. This is one informal way of helping the children express their ideas freely. Here are some of the comments:

"Teachers are teaching very well. I am happy in this school. Many knowledge we got and there's nothing much more to say.''

"We are very happy in this school. I want this school to be bigger. All teachers are lovely and kind. Teachers give food to us. We are very happy. Teachers also give books and pencils."

"It would be better if we had a place to play football at school."

" I am happy to meet new friends here at school. I really like teaching time, it was fun. There is nothing much  more to say."

"It would be better if we had more class time and more classrooms."

Thanks to the wonderful staff at CCM who are working so hard to give these children an opportunity to learn, grow and play in a safe and nurturing environment.

By Joy Dyer

SPM National Administrator