Harts' Ladder of Participation

Harts' Ladder of Participation is a way to measure how much children are genuinely involved in decision-making. It has eight levels, from non-participation (where children are ignored or their participation is just for show) to true participation (where children have a real voice and influence). The lower levels include being ignored or used to justify decisions, while the higher levels involve children sharing power, making decisions, and actively contributing. It helps adults understand and promote meaningful involvement, ensuring children's voices are truly heard and valued in decisions that affect them.