Written by Hanna Borg Jónsdóttir, Child Rights Specialist and Programme Director, UNICEF Iceland

Childhood is a time of wonder, growth, and discovery, but it’s also the foundation upon which lifelong attitudes and values are built. One of the most essential aspects of nurturing this foundation is recognizing and actively strengthening child rights in early childhood. When we focus on implementing these rights, we quickly realize how crucial it is to encourage child participation and autonomy, allowing children to influence decisions that affect their lives. Beyond the essential care and protection they need, children deserve to have a voice, to be seen and heard. 

This concept isn’t just an abstract idea—it’s one that can be put into practice with transformative results. Over the past five years, UNICEF Iceland has been doing just that by developing a groundbreaking Child Rights Schools model for kindergartens. Partnering with five different kindergartens in Reykjavík, the program was designed to actively involve children in decisions within their daily routines, and the results have been nothing short of inspiring. 

Child Participation in Daily Routines 

Each of the five kindergartens took on a specific theme centered around increasing child participation. Whether it was rest time, outdoor play, lunch, dressing for outdoor activities, or even diaper changes, the focus was on hearing the children’s voices and making adjustments that respected their autonomy. And the impact has been profound, leading to increased well-being for both the children and staff. 

One kindergarten, for example, focused on rest time. By simply asking children if they wanted to sleep, hold a teddy bear, relax, or listen to a story, rest time became more peaceful and enjoyable for everyone. Children had a say in shaping this part of their day, which transformed an often passive experience into one that was meaningful and tailored to their individual needs. 

Another example came from lunchtime. The children are now allowed to serve themselves, which not only teaches responsibility and autonomy but also significantly reduces food waste. Their input even helps shape the menu, giving them an active role in decisions about what they eat. With guidance and training, this simple shift has given children a deeper understanding of their agency and their ability to make choices that matter. 

In the dressing area, where children prepare to go outside, a long-standing tradition was reimagined. Instead of having children wait inside, fully dressed and overheating, until everyone was ready, the staff now allow children to head outdoors as soon as they’re dressed. This small change reduced stress, crying, and led to a more peaceful, harmonious transition. 

Even diaper changing saw improvements when the schedule became more flexible. Instead of changing every child’s diaper at the same time, the staff began responding to each child’s individual needs. This not only created a more relaxed environment but also fostered a sense of respect for the child’s personal needs. 

Small Changes, Big Impact 

What’s remarkable about all of these changes is how simple they are. None of them required massive structural shifts or expensive tools; they only required a shift in mindset. By being willing to listen to children and make room for their ideas and opinions, the staff discovered new ways to foster an environment of trust and respect. 

Through this approach, kindergartens are not only improving the day-to-day experiences of children but also teaching them the importance of their rights. Early childhood education in these schools now includes conversations about child rights, helping children understand how their rights relate to their everyday lives. From learning to voice their opinions about rest or play to being mindful of other children’s needs, they become more considerate and empathetic. 

The Ripple Effect of Child Rights 

Empowering children through these small, yet profound changes, creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond the kindergarten walls. Children who grow up knowing their rights and understanding their role in shaping their world are better prepared to become confident, compassionate adults. They learn that their voices matter, that their opinions are valid, and that they can make meaningful contributions even at a young age. 

This focus on child rights and participation lays a critical foundation for lifelong learning. It encourages problem-solving, decision-making, and empathy—skills that will carry children through their academic years and into adulthood. It also highlights the importance of creating spaces where children feel safe and respected, and where their contributions are valued. 

A Future Built on Respect and Autonomy 

As we continue to explore and implement child rights in early childhood, programs like UNICEF Iceland’s Child Rights Schools serve as powerful examples of what is possible. By shifting focus towards child participation and autonomy, we are not only nurturing happier, more resilient children today, but also cultivating the thoughtful, empathetic leaders of tomorrow. 

The message is clear: children, even in their earliest years, deserve to be active participants in decisions that shape their lives. When we listen to them, when we make space for their ideas and allow their voices to guide us, we build a future based on respect, equality, and understanding. 

Every small change matters. Every step forward counts. And when it comes to the rights of children, the most important thing we can do is to make sure they know their voices are heard—starting today.