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8-12 Years

Calling all young artists!

The Landon Pearson Centre for the Study of Childhood and Children’s Rights is excited to announce the 2025/26 Children & Youth Arts Contest! The theme is “Freedom of Expression and Identity”.

Before you begin, if you need help completing this contest, please ask a trusted adult to read through the instructions with you. 

Step 1

1. First, what are children’s rights?
 
Think of rights as a set of rules that make sure everyone is treated fairly.

As children, you have rights just for you — like the right to LEARN, the right to be HEALTHY, the right to PLAY, and the right to EXPRESS who you are! 

Step 2

2. Be yourself!

Next, think about how you express yourself.

  • How do you show who you are? Is it through your interests, your style, your personality, or something else?

  • How do you share your thoughts and feelings with others? Is it sometimes easy, or sometimes hard?

  • Do you feel listened to when you talk about how you feel or what you need to stay healthy? 

  • Who helps you feel cared for and healthy in your life? Can you tell us more about the people in your life that are special to you? 

  • What activities help you take care of your health and allow you to show who you are? Maybe its drawing, sports, music, dancing, or playing? Share your thoughts.  

Step 3

3. Create your art!

Now it’s your turn to create! You can paint, draw, colour, sing, dance, or use any kind of art you like. Photography, and videos are acceptable too! We’re excited to see how you express yourself—tell us your story! If you'd like, you can ask an adult to write down your ideas, and then you can share them!
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Note for caregivers: When helping artists write down their ideas, listen closely to their words. Record their thoughts exactly as they express them! Remember the power of their voice!
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Step 4

4. Tell us about it!
 
After you finish your art, share your thoughts. You can write it in a story or tell us in a video or an audio recording!

  • How did you show who you are in your artwork?

  • How did this activity make you feel?

  • ​What does your art mean to you?

Step 5

5. Show us your art!

Ask your grown up to help you submit your art and your story about your art. They can submit it to the Landon Pearson Centre by using the "Submit Your Art" page on this website! 

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