Legal Definitions - children's rights

Children's rights refer to the basic rights that are afforded to children, including both minors and adult children. These rights are protected by both state and federal laws.

Children have many of the same constitutional rights as adults, such as the right to free speech, religion, and assembly. However, there are some rights that are restricted for children, such as the right to vote, purchase alcohol or tobacco products, or enter into contracts.

Examples of children's rights include:

• The right to a safe and healthy environment
• The right to an education
• The right to be protected from abuse and neglect
• The right to express their opinions and beliefs
• The right to receive medical care and treatment

These examples illustrate how children's rights are designed to protect their well-being and ensure that they are treated fairly and justly. For example, the right to a safe and healthy environment ensures that children are not exposed to harmful substances or dangerous living conditions. The right to an education ensures that children have access to learning opportunities that will help them succeed in life. The right to be protected from abuse and neglect ensures that children are not subjected to physical or emotional harm.