What rights do parents or guardians have concerning their children under the age of 12?

Parents or guardians have the right to inspect and copy their children's records. This right is grounded in the understanding that parents or guardians are responsible for the care and welfare of their minor children, including the ability to access essential information related to their health, education, and well-being. Allowing parents or guardians to inspect and copy records ensures they can make informed decisions regarding their children's needs and interventions, fostering a supportive environment for the child's development.

The ability to inspect and copy records serves as a fundamental aspect of parental rights, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the care and treatment provided to children. This access helps ensure that parents can collaborate effectively with professionals working with their children, ultimately benefiting the child's recovery or educational journey.

The other options do not align with the established rights of parents or guardians in this context. For instance, the right to edit records does not typically belong to parents as the information is maintained by professionals responsible for its accuracy and integrity. For denying access, while there may be limited circumstances where access could be restricted, parents inherently have rights to these records unless otherwise dictated by specific legal conditions. Lastly, obtaining a court order is not a general requirement for parents or guardians to access their children's records, further reinforcing their rights in this area.