Overview
Child-centred practice refers to approaches that respect and reflect the needs, interests, and views of children. In child-centred practice, the focus is on arriving at decisions that are in the best interests of the child or youth.
Child-centred practice is important because it ensures the right to be heard and other child rights are upheld, and is in alignment with requirements and obligations set out in the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA) as well as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Child-centred practice is also beneficial: Engaging and listening to children can contribute to better and more relevant decision-making, policies, and services.
