Inspired by narratives on children’s rights, participation and social action, Children as Change Makers aids in creating active learning opportunities that will equip students in higher and further education, as well as practitioners and professionals to meaningfully get involved in community change projects that effectively partner with children and young people.

The chapters reignite a call for a paradigm shift in society, arguing that children’s social engagement is key to navigating local and global change. It invites adults to advance their thinking by reflecting on and revisiting the way they view children as participants (especially children under the age of 12 years old). Drawing on the multidisciplinary field of Childhood and Youth Studies, Sam Frankel and Daniella Bendo call for a unity of thought that equips children and young people as ‘participants’ to be a catalyst for a shared vision that recognises the social, environmental, economic and health challenges in communities.

Children as Change Makers will increase children’s, students, and practitioners’ confidence by engaging with guidance, practical examples and activities to strengthen collaborative opportunities with children. Drawing on a new innovative active learning approach, this book aims to bolster academic, professional and community learning opportunities and create experiences that contribute to life skills, career ambitions, and goals.

Sam Frankel is Founder and CEO of Learning Allowed with roles as Associate Professor at King’s University College, Western University, Canada and Visiting Fellow at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK.

Daniella Bendo is Associate Professor in the Department of Childhood and Youth Studies at King’s University College at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada. Her research focuses on advocacy, children’s rights, participation, youth justice, climate activism, child-centered research methodologies and community engagement with young people.