UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN RIGHTS,

OUR RESPONSOBILITIES AS ADULTS, &

CHILDREN RESPONSIBILITIES,

LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS
(POSITIVE AND NEGTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS)
& ITS IMPACT ON CHILDREN’S HOLISTIC
DEVELOPMENT

Darvesh Karim, AKU-IED/PDCN Gilgit

May 2024

Page | 1
 UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN RIGHTS, OUR RESPONSOBILITIES AS ADULTS, CHILDREN RESPONSIBILITIES,

LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS (POSITIVE AND NEGTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS) AND ITS IMPACT ON CHILDREN’S HOLISTIC
DEVELOPMENT

Darvesh Karim, AKU-IED/PDCN Gilgit

CHILDREN RIGHTS, OUR RESPONSIBILITIES AND CHILDREN RESPONSIBILITIES

Children's rights are fundamental entitlements that ensure children are treated with dignity, respect, and equality. These rights are outlined
in various international conventions, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Alongside children's
rights, there are corresponding responsibilities that adults and societies have towards children. Similarly, children also bear certain
responsibilities alongside their rights.

Child Rights Our responsibilities Children Responsibilities

Right to Education:
- Children have the right to education that
develops their personality, talents, and
abilities to their fullest potential.
Right to Health:
- Children have the right to access
healthcare, nutritious food, clean water,
and a safe environment to grow and
develop.
Right to Protection from Abuse and
Neglect:
- Children have the right to be protected
from all forms of physical or mental
violence, injury, abuse, neglect, or
maltreatment.
Ensure Access to Education:
- Adults and governments must ensure
access to quality education for all children,
regardless of their background or
circumstances.
Promote Awareness of Rights:
- Adults should promote awareness of
children's rights and advocate for their
implementation in all settings.
Create Safe Environments:
- Adults must create safe and nurturing
environments where children can grow,
learn, and thrive without fear of harm or
discrimination.
Attend School Regularly:
- Children should attend school regularly to
make the most of their educational
opportunities.
Complete Assignments:
- Children have a responsibility to complete
their school assignments to the best of their
abilities.
Respect Teachers and Classmates:
- Children should respect their teachers and
classmates, creating a positive learning
environment for everyone.

Page | 2
Child Rights
Right to Play and Recreation:
- Children have the right to engage in
play, leisure, and recreational activities
that promote their social, physical, and
cognitive development.
Right to Expression and Participation:
- Children have the right to express their
views freely and participate in decisions
affecting their lives, according to their age
and maturity.
Right to Family Life:
- Children have the right to live with their
parents unless separation is necessary for
their well-being. They also have the right
to maintain contact with both parents if
separated.
Right to Identity:
- Children have the right to an identity,
including a name, nationality, and family
relations, as recognized by law.
Right to Non-Discrimination:
- Children have the right to be treated
equally, without discrimination based on
race, color, sex, language, religion,
disability, or any other status.
Our responsibilities
Listen and Respect Children's Voices:
- Adults should listen to children's voices,
respect their opinions and perspectives,
and involve them in decisions that affect
their lives.
Provide Support and Guidance:
- Adults have a responsibility to provide
emotional support, guidance, and
encouragement to children as they
navigate life's challenges and opportunities.
Advocate for Justice and Equality:
- Adults should advocate for justice and
equality for all children, especially those
who are marginalized or disadvantaged.
Model Respectful Behavior:
- Adults must model respectful and
responsible behavior towards children,
demonstrating empathy, fairness, and
kindness in their interactions.
Protect Children from Harm:
- Adults must take action to protect
children from harm, including abuse,
exploitation, and discrimination, and
provide appropriate support and
intervention when needed.
Children Responsibilities
Follow Rules and Guidelines:
- Children should follow rules and
guidelines set by adults in their families,
schools, and communities to ensure safety
and order.
Participate Actively in Education:
- Children have a responsibility to
participate actively in their education,
including attending classes, completing
assignments, and engaging in learning
activities.
Express Themselves Respectfully:
- Children should express their thoughts,
feelings, and ideas in a respectful and
constructive manner, showing consideration
for others.
Take Care of Their Well-being:
- Children should take care of their own
well-being by practicing good hygiene,
eating nutritious food, getting enough rest,
and seeking help when needed.
Stand Up Against Injustice:
- Children have a responsibility to speak up
against injustice, bullying, and
discrimination, and to support those who
are being mistreated.
Page | 3
Child Rights
Right to Safety:
- Children have the right to be protected
from all forms of physical or mental harm,
injury, or abuse while in the care of
parents, legal guardians, or any other
person.
Right to Rest and Leisure:
- Children have the right to rest, leisure,
and play, as well as the opportunity to
participate in cultural and artistic activities.
Right to Food and Shelter:
- Children have the right to an adequate
standard of living, including access to
nutritious food, clean water, and
adequate housing.
Right to Cultural Identity:
- Children have the right to practice their
own culture, religion, and language, while
respecting the rights of others.
Right to Restorative Justice:
- Children who have infringed the law
have the right to appropriate assistance
Our responsibilities
Uphold Children's Privacy:
- Adults should respect children's privacy,
ensure confidentiality when appropriate,
and safeguard personal information from
unauthorized access or exploitation.
Facilitate Participation in Decision-Making:
- Adults should facilitate children's
participation in decisions that affect them,
considering their age and maturity.
Provide Opportunities for Learning and
Growth:
- Adults should provide opportunities for
children to learn, explore, and develop
their talents and interests in various
domains.
Ensure Access to Healthcare and Nutrition:
- Adults must ensure access to healthcare
services, nutritious food, clean water, and
sanitation facilities to promote children's
health and well-being.
Promote Inclusive Education:
- Adults should promote inclusive
education that accommodates diverse
Children Responsibilities
Learn and Grow from Experiences:
- Children should be curious, explore new
opportunities, and learn from their
experiences to grow and develop into
responsible and compassionate individuals
Contribute to Household Chores and
Responsibilities:
- Children should contribute to household
chores and responsibilities according to their
abilities and age, helping to create a
harmonious and supportive family
environment.
Communicate Their Needs and Concerns:
- Children should communicate their needs,
concerns, and feelings to adults, seeking
support and guidance when necessary.
Engage in Positive Social Relationships:
- Children should engage in positive social
relationships with peers, family members,
and adults, treating others with kindness,
empathy, and respect.
Respect Cultural Diversity:
- Children should respect cultural diversity
and learn about different cultures,
Page | 4
Child Rights Our responsibilities Children Responsibilities
and protection to facilitate their learning needs and respects children's rights traditions, and perspectives, fostering
reintegration into society. to education without discrimination. empathy and understanding.

Right to Freedom of Thought: Create Opportunities for Play and Take Ownership of Their Learning:
- Children have the right to freedom of Recreation: - Children should take responsibility for
thought, conscience, and religion, subject - Adults should create opportunities for their own learning, setting goals, seeking
to appropriate parental guidance. children to engage in play, recreation, and help when needed, and persevering in the
leisure activities that support their physical, face of challenges.
social, and emotional development.
Right to Special Care for Disability: Support Families in Providing Nurturing Practice Good Hygiene and Self-care:
- Children with disabilities have the right Environments: - Children should practice good hygiene and
to special care, education, and - Adults should support families in self-care habits to maintain their health and
opportunities to reach their full potential. providing nurturing and supportive well-being, including washing hands,
environments that meet children's physical, brushing teeth, and getting enough sleep.
emotional, and developmental needs.
Right to Protection from Exploitation: Prevent Discrimination and Bullying: Be Honest and Trustworthy:
- Children have the right to protection - Adults must take measures to prevent - Children should be honest and trustworthy
from economic exploitation and from discrimination, bullying, and harassment in their interactions with others, respecting
performing any work that is likely to be based on race, gender, disability, or any the importance of integrity and honesty.
hazardous or to interfere with their other characteristic, and promote respect
education, or to be harmful to their health for diversity and inclusion.
or physical, mental, spiritual, moral, or
social development.
Right to Access Information: Advocate for Policies and Laws that Protect Be Kind and Compassionate:
- Children have the right to seek, receive, Children's Rights: - Children should show kindness and
and impart information and ideas of all - Adults should advocate for policies and compassion towards others, helping those in
kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, laws that protect and promote children's
Page | 5
Child Rights
in writing, or in print, in the form of art,
or through any other media of the child's
choice.
Right to a Clean Environment:
- Children have the right to live in a clean
and healthy environment that supports
their well-being and development.
Right to Love and Care:
- Children have the right to love and care
from their parents, legal guardians, or any
other person responsible for their care.
Right to Peace:
- Children have the right to live in a
peaceful environment, free from all forms
of violence, abuse, neglect, or
maltreatment.
Our responsibilities
rights at local, national, and international
levels.
Provide Counseling and Mental Health
Support:
- Adults should provide access to
counseling and mental health support
services for children who may be
experiencing emotional or psychological
distress.
Address Socio-Economic Disparities:
- Adults should address socio-economic
disparities that affect children's access to
rights and opportunities, working to
reduce poverty, inequality, and social
exclusion.
Invest in Child Welfare Services:
- Adults and governments should invest in
child welfare services, including child
protection, healthcare, education, and
social support programs, to ensure the
well-being and development of all
children.
Children Responsibilities
need and promoting a culture of caring and
empathy.
Respect Nature and the Environment:
- Children should respect nature and the
environment, taking care of plants, animals,
and natural resources for future generations.
Resolve Conflicts Peacefully:
- Children should resolve conflicts and
disagreements peacefully, using
communication, negotiation, and problem-
solving skills to find mutually acceptable
solutions.
Seek Help When Needed:
- Children should seek help from trusted
adults when they are facing difficulties or
challenges, recognizing the importance of
asking for support when necessary.
Page | 6
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

A learning environment refers to the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual context
in which learning takes place. It encompasses the various elements and factors that
influence how individuals acquire knowledge, develop skills, and construct
understanding. A positive learning environment is conducive to engagement, motivation,
and meaningful learning experiences. Here are some key components of a learning
environment:

1. Physical Space: The physical layout of the classroom or learning setting, including
seating arrangements, lighting, temperature, and classroom resources, impacts the
comfort and accessibility of learners.

2. Resources and Materials: Access to a variety of learning resources, such as textbooks,

technology, manipulatives, and multimedia tools, supports diverse learning styles and
preferences.

3. Curriculum and Instruction: The design and delivery of the curriculum, instructional
methods, and teaching strategies influence the depth and breadth of learning experiences
for students.

4. Classroom Culture: The norms, values, and expectations established within the
learning community shape the social interactions, communication patterns, and behavior
of students and teachers.

5. Relationships and Interactions: Positive relationships between teachers and students, as

well as among peers, foster trust, collaboration, and a sense of belonging, which are
essential for effective learning.

6. Supportive Learning Environment: A supportive environment that celebrates diversity,

encourages risk-taking, and provides opportunities for reflection and feedback promotes
resilience, growth mindset, and self-efficacy.

7. Assessment and Feedback: Ongoing assessment practices and constructive feedback

help learners monitor their progress, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for
continuous learning.

8. Cultural and Emotional Considerations: Recognizing and valuing cultural diversity,

promoting inclusivity, and addressing social-emotional needs create a safe and
welcoming environment for all learners.

9. Flexibility and Adaptability: Flexibility in teaching approaches, instructional delivery,

and learning pathways accommodates individual differences, preferences, and learning
needs.

10. Technology Integration: Thoughtful integration of technology tools and digital

resources enhances learning opportunities, promotes digital literacy, and facilitates
collaboration and communication.

Page | 7
A POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

A positive learning environment is one that fosters engagement, motivation, and

meaningful learning experiences for all individuals involved, including students, teachers,
and other stakeholders. It is characterized by a supportive and inclusive atmosphere
where learners feel safe, respected, and valued. Here are some key characteristics of a
positive learning environment:

1. Safety and Well-being: A positive learning environment prioritizes the physical and
emotional safety of all individuals. It ensures that learners feel secure and comfortable,
both physically and emotionally, allowing them to take risks, express themselves, and
participate fully in learning activities.

2. Respect and Inclusivity: Mutual respect, empathy, and inclusivity are fundamental
aspects of a positive learning environment. It celebrates diversity, recognizes the unique
strengths and perspectives of everyone, and fosters a sense of belonging for all learners,
regardless of background or identity.

3. Clear Expectations and Boundaries: Clear expectations, rules, and boundaries are
established and communicated effectively within the learning community. This helps
maintain order, promote accountability, and create a structured yet flexible environment
conducive to learning.

4. Supportive Relationships: Positive relationships between teachers and students, as well

as among peers, are cultivated and nurtured. These relationships are characterized by
trust, open communication, and genuine care, fostering a sense of connection and
collaboration within the learning community.

5. Engaging and Relevant Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to be engaging,

relevant, and meaningful to learners' lives. It incorporates diverse perspectives, real-
world applications, and opportunities for exploration and inquiry, sparking curiosity and
deepening understanding.

6. Active Learning Opportunities: A positive learning environment promotes active

learning experiences that encourage learners to construct knowledge, solve problems,
and apply critical thinking skills. It incorporates hands-on activities, collaborative projects,
and experiential learning opportunities that foster creativity, curiosity, and perseverance.

7. Feedback and Reflection: Ongoing feedback and reflection are integral parts of the
learning process. Learners receive constructive feedback on their progress and
achievements, enabling them to reflect on their learning, set goals for improvement, and
take ownership of their academic growth.

8. Flexibility and Differentiation: The learning environment is flexible and responsive to

the diverse needs, interests, and learning styles of individual learners. Differentiated
instruction, personalized learning approaches, and adaptive strategies are employed to
support each learner's unique strengths and challenges.

Page | 8
9. Positive Reinforcement and Celebration: Positive reinforcement and recognition of
achievements are used to motivate and inspire learners. Celebrating successes, milestones,
and efforts reinforces a growth mindset, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment among
learners.

10. Continuous Improvement: A positive learning environment is characterized by a

culture of continuous improvement and reflection. Teachers, students, and other
stakeholders collaborate to identify areas for growth, implement innovative practices,
and adapt to changing needs and circumstances.

A NEGATIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

A negative learning environment is one that impedes learning, hinders engagement, and
contributes to feelings of discomfort, stress, or inadequacy among learners. It is
characterized by various factors that create barriers to learning and detract from the
overall educational experience. Here are some key characteristics of a negative learning
environment:

1. Lack of Safety and Security: A negative learning environment may lack physical or
emotional safety, leading to feelings of insecurity or fear among learners. This could
result from bullying, harassment, violence, or inadequate safety measures within the
learning environment.

2. Disrespect and Hostility: Mutual respect and positive relationships may be lacking,
leading to disrespectful behavior, conflict, or hostility among students, teachers, or other
members of the learning community. This could create a toxic atmosphere that
undermines trust and collaboration.

3. Unclear Expectations and Inconsistencies: Unclear expectations, ambiguous rules, or

inconsistent enforcement of policies can create confusion, frustration, and a sense of
unfairness among learners. This lack of clarity may lead to disengagement or resistance to
participation in learning activities.

4. Negative Peer Dynamics: Negative peer dynamics, such as cliques, exclusion, or social
hierarchies, can create a hostile or unwelcoming environment for certain individuals. This
may result in social isolation, low self-esteem, or feelings of alienation among students.

5. Dullness and Lack of Engagement: Monotonous or uninspiring teaching methods,

outdated materials, or irrelevant curriculum content can contribute to boredom and
disengagement among learners. This may lead to apathy, absenteeism, or disruptive
behavior in the classroom.

6. Stress and Pressure: Excessive academic pressure, unrealistic expectations, or high stakes
testing environments can create stress and anxiety among students, impacting their well-
being and hindering their ability to focus and learn effectively.

Page | 9
7. Limited Opportunities for Participation and Expression: A negative learning
environment may restrict opportunities for student participation, creativity, or expression
of diverse perspectives. This can lead to feelings of voicelessness, disempowerment, or
marginalization among learners.

8. Negative Feedback and Criticism: Harsh or overly critical feedback, punitive

disciplinary measures, or public humiliation can undermine students' confidence and
motivation to learn. Negative reinforcement may lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-
doubt, or resentment towards learning.

9. Lack of Support and Resources: Inadequate support services, limited access to

resources, or insufficient accommodations for diverse learning needs can create barriers
to success for certain students. This may exacerbate disparities in achievement and
contribute to feelings of frustration or helplessness.

10. Absence of Reflection and Growth: A negative learning environment may lack
opportunities for reflection, growth, or improvement. The focus may be solely on
performance outcomes rather than on fostering a culture of continuous learning,
resilience, and self-improvement.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ITS IMPACT ON CHILDREN’S HOLISTIC

DEVELOPMENT

The learning environment plays a crucial role in children's holistic development,

encompassing their physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Here's how the
learning environment influences each aspect:

1. Physical Development:

Safe and Stimulating Spaces: A well-designed learning environment provides

opportunities for physical activity, exploration, and sensory experiences, supporting
children's gross and fine motor skills development.

Healthy Practices: Access to nutritious meals, clean water, and proper sanitation facilities
promotes physical health, ensuring children have the energy and vitality needed for
learning and growth.

2. Emotional Development:

Secure and Nurturing Atmosphere: A supportive and caring environment fosters a sense
of security, trust, and emotional well-being, allowing children to develop positive self-
esteem and resilience.

Emotional Regulation Skills: Opportunities for expressing emotions, receiving validation,

and learning coping strategies help children develop emotional intelligence and regulate
their feelings effectively.

Page | 10
3. Social Development:

Peer Interaction: Interacting with peers in a diverse and inclusive environment promotes
social skills such as cooperation, empathy, and communication, preparing children for
successful relationships and collaboration in the future.

Role Models and Mentors: Positive relationships with teachers, caregivers, and older
peers serve as role models, providing guidance, support, and opportunities for social
learning and emotional bonding.

4. Cognitive Development:

Stimulating Materials and Activities: Access to age-appropriate toys, books, tools, and
technology encourages curiosity, exploration, and problem-solving skills, fostering
cognitive development and creativity.

Flexible Learning Spaces: Varied learning environments, including quiet corners, outdoor
areas, and interactive zones, accommodate diverse learning styles and preferences,
enhancing children's engagement and motivation to learn.

5. Language and Literacy Development:

Print-Rich Environment: Exposure to print materials, labels, and language-rich

interactions supports language acquisition, vocabulary development, and literacy skills,
laying the foundation for reading and writing proficiency.

Storytelling and Communication Opportunities: Opportunities for storytelling, dramatic

play, and discussions promote language fluency, comprehension, and expression,
fostering communication skills and socio-emotional development.

6. Cultural and Identity Development:

Culturally Responsive Practices: Embracing diversity, multicultural resources, and inclusive

curricula validate children's cultural identities and experiences, fostering a sense of
belonging and respect for others.

Celebration of Diversity: Celebrating cultural festivals, traditions, and languages promotes

cultural awareness, empathy, and understanding, nurturing children's appreciation for
diversity and global citizenship.

7. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:

Exploration and Inquiry-Based Learning: Opportunities for hands-on exploration,

experimentation, and open-ended inquiry develop critical thinking skills, curiosity, and a
growth mindset, empowering children to question, analyse, and solve problems
creatively.

Scaffolding and Guided Discovery: Supportive guidance from educators, including

questioning techniques, prompts, and feedback, scaffolds children's learning experiences,
helping them make connections, draw conclusions, and construct meaning
independently.

Page | 11