Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

This month we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

There are a lot of difficult and confusing things happening in the world right now. Many world events can be hard to understand, particularly for our little ones. You might find yourself wondering how to talk to your child about world events in an appropriate way. Maybe you they are already asking questions you are not sure how to answer, or with how much detail.

It’s never too early to talk to your children about human rights, but finding the best words and time to talk can be tricky.

Reading a book with your child can be a gentle time to share and talk about hard things. So, why not try talking it through with a book?

Some of the books in the list below may start an important conversation or help you answer some of those tricky questions.

• We Are All Born Free by Amnesty International: This beautiful collection celebrates each part of The Universal Declaration of Human Rights with beautiful artwork by numerous international illustrators.
• The Spectacular Suit by Kat Patrick and illustrated by Hayley Wells: Is a buoyant celebration of individuality, identity, and celebrating yourself and others for who we all are.
• I Have the Right by Reza Dalvand: Is an introduction to universal rights under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and includes simple language to introduce rights like the right to an education or the right to have a name and nationality.
• People Need People by Benjamin Zephaniah and illustrated by Nila Aye: Is an uplifting picture book about the power of people, and the importance of connecting with others. This book reminds us to be kind to one another.
• Someone Just Like You by Helen Docherty and illustrated by David Roberts: This book is all about the things that make us the same, and the things that make us different. The illustrations include lots of diversity and remind us that there are people on the other side of the world who might be our best friend just waiting to meet us.

For more information about how you can support your baby’s health and wellbeing through reading, visit a Story, Rhyme or Play time at The Corner at the State Library of Queensland or attend a First 5 Forever session at your own local library.  If you can’t make a session, you can also come into The Parlour at State Library and read with your little one. And remember, you’re never too young to be a member of your local library and borrow any of the excellent books about human rights and diversity in this list to read and enjoy at home.