Rethinking Children and Research considers the way people approach research into childhood and children's lives and examines the debates concerning the forms and goals of such research. Theoretical and practice-based perspectives are discussed in the context of recent key developments in research theory and philosophy of children. Mary Kellett promotes the idea that researchers should listen to the voices and perspectives of children as experts on their own lives, and offers insights and guidance on approaches to research design, implementation and presentation. Recent debates and developments are considered, including ethics, approaching research with children from a child-rights framework, and rethinking the power dynamic within research relationships with children. Rethinking Children and Research is essential for studying childhood and undergraduate or postgraduate level, and will be of interest to all involved with research into childhood and children's lives in the areas of education, health and social services.

Author Biography

Mary Kellett is a Senior Lecturer in Childhood Studies and Director of the Childhood and Youth Studies programme at The Open University, where she is also Director of the Children's Research Centre. Before embarking on a post-doctoral academic career, she worked as a social worker and primary school teacher. She sits on a number of national and international steering groups and has published widely on many aspects of education and childhood.