IT was a case of all-hands on the coloured cupcakes yesterday in the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House as the kids took over.

The occasion was the opening by CEO of UNICEF Australia Norman Gillespie, who joined MoAD director Daryl Karp in unveiling of “Play Up,” a show which explores the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child the new exhibition looking at children’s rights by directly involving young people themselves.

You could sense the impending summer holidays as children from several schools crammed in to enjoy the interactive exhibits and unusual displays built around the central theme, “Right to Play,” curated, uniquely, by and in consultation with children

One such exhibit was the recycled cardboard art created by children with artist Kirsty Macafee, showing an inexpensive way to play.

“Play Up” is part of celebrations of the 25th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and Ms Karp commented, “Children are our future agents of change, so engaging them early in the conversation about their unique set of human rights is an important step to ensure future democratic engagement.”

According to Mr Gillespie, “Play can be a child right we take for granted in Australia, but its power for all children cannot be underestimated…It’s an important child right and one UNICEF Australia is pleased to see the Museum of Australian Democracy embracing and celebrating.”

The process for curating this exhibition was distinct. During school holiday programs this year, children explored the idea that mischief can be a powerful form of protest, and created photographic, video and graffiti works which are displayed in the exhibition. The show was designed by Fiona Lee, exhibition designer and other creatives involved included photography artist Christine Pobke and urban artist Geoff Filmer.

As you enter “Play Up,” you’ll see the museum’s “Occupy Small Street” collection, toy figurines with political placards created by visitors during “Enlighten” earlier this year.

“Play Up,” at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, daily 9am–5pm, with the current theme “The Right to Play” on display until June 2015. The next theme of the ongoing exhibition, “The Right to Shelter” will be on display from July 2015. Information at moadoph.gov.au