The Future is LOUD: Listening on World Children’s Day

Every year on November 20, the world celebrates World Children’s Day, a day to recognise the rights of children and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). The Convention acknowledges that children have the right to express their views and be heard on matters that affect them.

This year the UNCRC turns 35 and children are encouraged to raise their voices on the things that matter most to them ... because “children have the right to have a say on the things that are important to them”. UNICEF celebrates World Children’s Day with A Minute of Loudness campaign inviting children globally to share their ideas LOUDLY!

Libraries play an important role in this celebration.

Libraries offer a creative, supportive space for children to express their views, perspectives and rights every day. World Children’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate and recognise children’s rights and views. It isn’t just about talking—it’s about listening to children!

Libraries are perfect places for children to have their voices heard through talking, singing, reading, and playing. Even the simple act of talking and making noise together in a fun, safe environment empowers children to express themselves and be heard.

On World Children’s Day, visiting your local library can be a great way to support young children in speaking up for their rights and making their voices heard. Whether it’s talking, reading, singing, or playing at First 5 Forever sessions, or visiting a special event, we can all listen to the voices of children and remind ourselves that children’s views matter.

After all, their future is worth listening to.