Children’s Agency and Voices: Exploring the role of educators in promoting children’s participation in Guided Outdoor Play

Abstract

This thesis will explore how educators can promote children’s participation, agency, and voices through guided outdoor play in Finnish early childhood education and care (ECEC). The purpose of this study is to design and examine outdoor activities that promote active participation by strengthening children’s involvement in planning, implementation, and reflection. Additionally, the study aims to emphasize the critical role of the educator in facilitating and supporting children’s active participation throughout these processes. The development task will consist of creating a pedagogical documentation of guided activities, children’s reflections, and analysis of educators’ practices. The theoretical framework is based on Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, Kolb’s experiential learning model, Palmer’s Tree Model, and the Finnish National Core Curriculum for ECEC (2022). The results are expected to offer insights into how educators can foster meaningful participation in outdoor play. The findings inform conclusions and recommendations for strengthening children’s agency in ECEC practice. Reliability and ethics are ensured by maintaining anonymity and respecting children’s voices throughout the process.

Bulb Link: https://eu.bulbapp.com/u/laurea-thesis~e0?sharedLink=2b7cdd5d-2e11-4309 b7b5-5ffa4fb6941b