This curriculum guide is a companion volume to a textbook created by Defense for Children International-USA to meet demands for a course on children's rights and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This guide addresses 23 key children's issues from the perspective of the experiences of children of diverse cultures. The issues include the definition of a child; children's best interests; freedom from discrimination; survival and development; nationality; health; parental care; children without families; family reunification; education; armed conflicts; refugees; disabilities; abuse and exploitation; child labor; juvenile justice; narcotics; rehabilitative care; freedom of thought; freedom of expression; protection of privacy; and leisure. Readings for each of these issues portray children in real-life situations. Each lesson includes background information, discussion questions, and suggested activities. The text is illustrated with maps, cartoons, and resource material from diverse cultures. The book is designed for junior high and high school students. Appendixes include the full text of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and a summary of the articles of the convention. (BC)