My Rights as a Child

To have someone I love with me whenever possible,
To be told what is happening to me,
To ask questions and be given answers I understand,
To not be alone if I am sad,
To be able to play, even if I have to stay in bed,

And

That people are honest with me,
That the people who care for me understand children's needs,
That I am safe,
That my body is my body,
That I am respected as a real person with feelings and rights of my own,
That my well-being is the most important thing
And I am part of a family.

Maternal and Child Health Services, MiddlemoreHospital, South Auckland, New Zealand.