Activity 2: Handout 2: The Benefits of Listening

The benefits of listening to children and young people

We begin to understand their lives and concerns
We are given the opportunity to hear their views, opinions and ideas.
It helps avoid implementing things children and young people don’t want or need.
It helps to shape the future of the church, its groups and worship
It creates a greater sense of ownership and belonging
It offers a fresh perspective, even if the ideas and suggestions are challenging
It enables the prophetic voice of the young to be heard afresh in each generation.
It allows children and young people to work alongside adults in finding solutions which meet different needs.
It helps children and young people gain confidence and valuable decision making skills
It demonstrates that we value children and young people as fellow members of the church.
It offers children and young people a way into becoming actively involved in shaping the things that affect them
It enables children and young people realise that their voices can lead to change

There are endless ways of listening to the voices of children and young people. However, it is vital to choose a method that is age appropriate and best suits those you are listening to. You will need to plan well, obtain relevant permissions and follow all safeguarding procedures.

Method examples:

Have an informal discussion
Conduct a formal consultation
Have an open meeting
Set up a focus group around a particular issue
Have youth representatives on the church council
Set up a youth or children’s council
Conduct a questionnaire or online survey
Use social media, tweets, blogs and texts
Ask relevant questions in creative ways
Play decision making games
Make a model or sculpture from scrap
Paint a picture, large collage or graffiti wall
Use music, drama or role play
Have circle time to share views and ideas
Use photography

For more information, advice, resources and useful links visit http://going4growth.com