Ethnographic Research in Childhood

Ethnographic research in childhood involves studying children in their natural environments—like homes, schools, or play areas—to understand their behaviors, interactions, and perspectives. Researchers observe and sometimes participate in children’s daily activities to gain deep insights into how they experience the world. This approach helps us see childhood from the child's point of view, considering cultural and social contexts, and provides a detailed understanding of their development, values, and social relationships. It emphasizes natural observation over surveys or experiments to capture authentic, nuanced experiences of children.