Article of the week.

Welcome to Rights Respecting School online assembly.

This weeks online assembly looks at Article 12. 

Article 12 – Every child has the right to express their views, feelings and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously.

This right applies at all times, for example during immigration proceedings, housing decisions or the child’s day-to-day home life.

Adults can do lots of things to help you have your voice heard properly. These include:

– Listening.
– Giving appropriate Information about the situations you are involved in.
– Helping to communicate your ideas if you need it.
– An opportunity to give your views in a way that works for you.
– Feed-back so that you know your views have been heard
– Acknowledging that your voice counts.
– Trusting that you can speak honestly even if your opinion is different from many others.
– Believing that your opinion is welcome and respected.

Possible Activites

Can you…

(Early Level)

In some stories children’s views are ignored. Have you read ‘Not Now Bernard!’?

If not watch this story.

What would you say to Bernard’s parents if you had the chance?

(1st Level)

Have you ever thanked people at home who are good at listening to you? Design a card or picture, or write a letter to thank them for hearing your voice.

or

Design a poster for display about the importance of  Article 12.

(2nd Level)

Write a creative story, a poem, a short play script or are you creative enough to design a piece of art using the title ‘Head My Voice’. Share it with your family.

or

Design a poster for display  about the importance of Article 12.

Need a hand with your voice? The link below takes you to instructions on how to make a paper/cardboard megaphone! (Sorry Adults!) 

Reflection/Pupil Voice

It’s time to get your thinking hats on… again!

Try to find somewhere quiet for a few minutes, sit comfortably and be as still as you can… just try to relax… and listen to the sounds, within your body, close by and further away.

Try this short guided meditation.

How does it feel when you know that an adult has really listened to you?

How can we show our appreciation and why is this important?

How can we respect other people’s right to have their voice heard? Even when we disagree?

Ask yourself – what could I do to make my voice stronger? What should I really speak up about? How can I do this?

Click on the link above to listen to the new song, ‘This is me’.

Remember to ‘Keep the Blues’ away. Click the link above to listen to one of our assembly favourites!