A CRIA is a starting point for decision-makers to apply a child rights lens to their work. If applied comprehensively, the application of a CRIA can strengthen policy and legislation, reducing unintended negative impacts on the wellbeing of children. This includes both direct and indirect impacts. Although the CRIA tool in this project was applied to policy decisions that had already taken place— the decision to close ECEC and schools across jurisdictions—the process of developing the tool showed the extent and type of information that is needed for a comprehensive CRIA analysis. This process assisted the tool to be further refined. By considering these impacts, decision-makers are taking the first steps towards ensuring government laws and policies produce outcomes that are in the best interests of children and their families. The CRIA tool provides a systematic approach for government to incorporate these considerations into its decision-making. The Secretariat of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights piloted the CRIA in January 2023. Its feedback was incorporated into the tool. Safeguarding Children: Using a child rights impact assessment to improve our laws and policies | 27