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Our Approach

Consultation is about a dialogue that informs both parties. playtrain’s consultation method encourages children and young people to express themselves and to engage in meaningful dialogue about the things that really interest them.

The Process: Observation, Delivery, Reflection

Reflective practice is a key element in this consultative process. Children and young people are encouraged to take a lead on their investigation and exploration of the research question. The adults involved create a ‘frame’ for the children and young people to work within. This means working in an open ended way where the results can be unpredictable.

Generally, each project involves children and young people spending a period of time informally with a playtrain facilitator. This provides space and time for the young people to decide if they want to be involved. This is followed by a number of sessions spent exploring and re-visiting the subject or experience. The consultation ends with a final shared reflection on the findings and perspectives of all those involved.

Throughout the project the facilitator makes observations of the children and young people’s interests and records these using photography and notes. Children and young people’s languages are expressed through play, photography, drawing, mark making, stories and discussions with the facilitator. Additional layers of information are gained by talking to parents and practitioners about young people’s experiences.

Our projects highlight children’s competencies and demonstrate that young people are more than capable of involvement in decision making processes across services in their communities. We aim to challenge thinking, raise awareness about children’s rights and inspire change in the provision of services for all children and young people.