Childhood

What makes childhood a space for exploration as well as protection?

Childhood deserves room for play, discovery, relationships and the experience of being cared for. Children are people now, with their own perspectives, as well as people whose capacities are developing. Adults and institutions carry responsibility for creating conditions in which they can explore, ask questions and gradually practise choices. Learning can include trying again, talking about what happened and receiving guidance without humiliation. Adult convenience should not be confused with a child's interests or used to silence their voice.

Listening may happen through play, a drawing, a pause or a few words. Adults can be attentive without demanding an account the child cannot or does not want to give.

A question to sit with (optional): Whose timetable or expectation is shaping this child's day, and where is their own voice?