Children's freedom of expression is a right recognized by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Giving children multiple opportunities to express themselves is one way to support their global development.
In doing so, children get to share their opinions, likes and dislikes, and concerns. The adults in their lives—mother, father, educators or home day care providers—get the hints needed to help them have meaningful experiences. Children are slowly but surely learning to express themselves in a way that is socially acceptable. As their language skills grow, they acquire the tools needed to establish good relationships. It is important for children to be able to express themselves, but it just as important for them to be able to do so respectfully.
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