The Canadian Charter of Rights & Freedoms is a bill of rights. How to I do explain what a 'bill of rights' is to someone about 5 years of age?
I'd concentrate on explaining these basic rights.
FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS.
2. Everyone has the following fundamental freedoms:
(a) freedom of conscience and religion;
(b) freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication;
(c) freedom of peaceful assembly; and
(d) freedom of association.
http://www.efc.ca/pages/law/charter/charter.text.html
Explain that everyone can go to any church or no church. Everyone can say what s/he wants. Everyone can have the friends they want.
Thanks Ms. Sue :D
You're welcome, Lena.
To explain what a 'bill of rights' is to a 5-year-old, you can use a simple analogy and straightforward language. Here's an example:
"Imagine you and your friends want to play a game together. To make sure everyone is happy and treated fairly, you can make some special rules called a 'bill of rights.' These rules help everyone to have fun and be safe while playing."
"You know, sometimes we might have a disagreement or someone might do something that's not fair. So, a 'bill of rights' helps us understand what's fair and what should happen when something is not fair."
"For example, one of the rules in the 'bill of rights' could be that everyone gets to take turns and have a chance to play. Another rule could be that nobody should hurt others while playing. These rules make sure that everybody has a fair and enjoyable time."
"The Canadian Charter of Rights & Freedoms is like a big 'bill of rights' for the whole country. It has rules that help protect the rights and freedoms of all the people who live in Canada, just like our game rules help everyone play nicely and have fun."
"Having a bill of rights means that everybody in Canada has important rights and freedoms that the government has to respect and protect. It's kind of like a promise that makes sure everyone is treated fairly and equally."
Remember to use language and concepts that a 5-year-old can easily understand and relate to. Keep it brief and encourage them to ask any questions they might have.