Rights

Every child has the right to play.
Photo: UNICEF/HQ04-0406/Christine Nesbitt

The right to play:
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child protects every child’s right to play. Sport, recreation and play are a fun way to learn values and lessons that will last a life time. You also have the right to socialise with other children and young people. Having time to relax and enjoy yourself is an important part of childhood.

What the CRC says:

• You have the right to meet with other children and young people and to join groups and organisations, as long as this does not stop other people from enjoying their rights.
• You have a right to relax and play and to join in a wide range of activities.

Do all children get their right to play?
Children miss out on their right to play for many reasons. Conflicts, and the landmines they leave behind, can make play too dangerous. Child labour means many children don't have time to play, while many children who are orphaned by AIDS miss out on their childhoods because they're forced to work and look after their brothers and sisters.