Participation seen through Children’s Perspectives and Understanding

This chapter explores children’s perspectives on participation, with a focus on their own understandings and lived experiences. Drawing on empirical data from various contexts, the chapter highlights the factors influencing children’s understanding of participation and the complexities of participation as seen through children’s eyes, the barriers they face, and the transformative potential of empowering their agency. Using an intersectional lens the chapter analyses how identity, context, and adult-child dynamics influence children’s opportunities and experiences. Central themes include agency, intersectionality, trust, and the role of adults in fostering meaningful participation.