Welcome to the Child rights and why they matter course. This online course aims to: raise the level of awareness and understanding of child rights and a child rights approach and why they are so important to UNICEF; stimulate interest, increase motivation and provide inspiration for all UNICEF personnel and partners globally; encourage an improved application of a child rights approach in practice by UNICEF personnel and partners.
This course is composed of a single, short, self-paced module. Each section introduces 'key messages' illustrated by colorful cartoons, followed by a short video providing more information. The videos feature UNICEF personnel and partners, children, teachers and members of the general public from around the world. The videos are available with or without audio description. A final activity encourages you to reflect on the learning for each section and, finally, the course as a whole.
This course is composed of eight sections:
- Introduction
- Child rights and their importance for UNICEF
- Child rights in relation to human rights, needs and well-being
- A child rights approach
- Making a difference through a child rights approach
- Applying child rights: a child rights and equity approach to our work
- Responding to difficult questions about child rights
- Summary
Is this course for me? The course is suitable for all professionals interested in developing their knowledge of child rights. 
How will I benefit from this course? On completion of this course you will:- Transform and/or refresh your awareness, understanding and appreciation of child rights and a child rights approach in a memorable and lasting way
- Describe child rights, and explain how a child rights approach differs from other approaches, such as child-focused/child-centred, charity and welfare approaches;
- Explain and describe UNICEF’s mandate as it relates to the promotion, protection and fulfilment of children’s rights;
- Describe UNICEF’s engagement in supporting implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child;
- Communicate with partners and personnel about raising awareness and understanding of child rights and a child rights approach, thus cascading the training by word-of mouth;
- Start thinking about ways in which to apply what you have learned to your everyday work and life.
How long will it take? It should take you about 75 minutes to complete.
How much does it cost? This course is free.
Will I get a certificate at the end? Yes! You will be able to download a certificate after you have completed all the modules and the feedback form.
How do I start? Click on Join button on this page. This will take you through to the course modules. Don't worry, if you stop a module halfway through, you can always continue later from where you left off.
- Transform and/or refresh your awareness, understanding and appreciation of child rights and a child rights approach in a memorable and lasting way
- Describe child rights, and explain how a child rights approach differs from other approaches, such as child-focused/child-centred, charity and welfare approaches;
- Explain and describe UNICEF’s mandate as it relates to the promotion, protection and fulfilment of children’s rights;
- Describe UNICEF’s engagement in supporting implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child;
- Communicate with partners and personnel about raising awareness and understanding of child rights and a child rights approach, thus cascading the training by word-of mouth;
- Start thinking about ways in which to apply what you have learned to your everyday work and life.