Child Participation

Children have the right to participate in matters affecting their lives and should be enabled to give their opinions, and to have those opinions taken into account. Through participation, children learn self-expression, empowerment and ultimately greater self-esteem. Children are a diverse group and therefore children of different ages, abilities, backgrounds, races, and both genders should ideally be included in a consultation process.

The views or wishes of children should never be assumed or overlooked, and such a process will ultimately help to formulate interventions which are more responsive. Whether investigating abuse, assessing a child’s needs, undertaking permanency planning, or evaluating standards of care, children’s opinions must form an integral part of the decision making process. The appointment of an independent guardian is a safeguard to ensure that the child has a voice and that his or her rights are protected.

The process of encouraging participation requires skill in communicating with children. Children should not be told what to say, intimidated, or judged. An environment of safety and respect is necessary to help the child feel comfortable to express her opinions, and therefore care should be taken regarding who else is present, the physical environment, and the way information is sought.

Children should be given a choice regarding participation, and where possible, parents and caretakers should be fully aware of the consultation process. Confidentiality of information is paramount and children should not be put in danger as a result of expressing their views. It is the responsibility of all professionals involved in the care of children to ensure that the process of participation is safe and that children will have support available where follow-up is necessary.

This section includes guidance on the process for consulting children, and example participation projects.

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Transforming Orphanage Care: A Case Example in Zimbabwe

Devi Dee, 2004

An informal evaluation of an NGO residential institution in Zimbabwe, based on the opinions of the child residents. Includes recommendations for the improvement of residential care.

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How Poverty Separates Parents and Children: A Challenge to Human Rights

International Movement ATD Fourth World, 2004

An executive summary of lessons learned on preventing family separation in poverty stricken communities. Brief case studies from Guatemala, Haiti, Philippines, United States and Burkina Faso.

So You Want to Consult with Children? A Toolkit of Good Practice

Save the Children, 2003

A toolkit of good practices for involving children in consultation and policy processes. Includes an extensive guide to additional resources.

So You Want to Consult with Children: A Toolkit of Good Practice

Save the Children Alliance, 2003

A comprehensive guide to organizing consultations with groups of children or young people, and the role of adults in creating a safe and enabling environment for meaningful child participation.

Survey of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Rwanda and Zambia

N/A, 2003

A sample survey designed to be used in interviewing parents and guardians of children ages six to twelve years old. The questions assess household financial security, socio-demographic and community characteristics, psychosocial intervention exposure, income generation intervention exposure, health status, HIV/AIDS prevention exposure, legal rights, and coping skills. Includes sample consent form.

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Children's Participation in Research: Reflections from the Care and Protection of Separated Children in Emergencies Project

Gillian Mann and David Tolfree , 2003

Paper described ways in which children separated in emergencies have been involved in research about their community and lives. It focuses on identifying the most appropriate and achievable way to involve children given the reality of their context and circumstances, and includes an appendix of specific games to encourage child participation.

Building Blocks: Africa-wide Briefing Notes: Psychosocial Support

International HIV/AIDS Alliance, 2003

Outlines the psychosocial impacts of HIV/AIDS on children and suggests principles and activities to strengthen psychosocial support. Includes a brief list of follow-up resources.

Street and Working Children's Participation in Programming for their Rights

Claire O’Kane, 2003

Outlines the Butterfly Program in India, which utilizes to an empowerment approach to working with children living and working on the streets of New Delhi. Highlights the importance of child participation and rights.

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RBM and Children's Participation: A Guide to Incorporating Child Participation Results into CIDA Programs

CIDA Child Protection Unit, Policy Branch, 2003

A guide designed to help incorporate child participation results into relevant projects. Includes current practices and lessons learned, sample project plans, and a list of suggested resources.

Street and Working Children's Participation in Programming for Their Rights

Claire O'Kane, 2003

Focuses on the work of the Butterflies Programme for Street and Working Children in India. Advocates for participatory approaches in child-focused development work.