What the Methodology Is
Understanding the foundation and purpose of this approach
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What it is
Speaking Minds is a recognized participation method that brings together municipalities or provinces and young people in vocational, practical, or lower‑secondary education. Authorities introduce one or more policy questions, on topics such as poverty, safety, inclusion, health, or climate, and young people work through a guided series of sessions to study the issue, consult peers, engage with experts, map local initiatives, and co‑create solutions.
Across 6 to 10 structured meetings, supported by trained Speaking Minds facilitators, young participants deepen their understanding of the policy area, analyze causes and impacts, and collaboratively design concrete recommendations. They then present their proposals to decision‑makers in a final public session. A few months after, authorities provide feedback on how the recommendations were used, ensuring accountability and meaningful participation. The methodology aims to build young people’s confidence, civic knowledge, and sense of agency while strengthening more democratic, inclusive local policy development.
How It Can Be Used
Practical applications and implementation guidance
Speaking Minds is designed to bridge the persistent gap between children and decision‑makers by creating a structured, longer-term process where both sides work on the same, shared issue. Adults (including authorities and professionals) receive training to strengthen their ability to listen to, engage with, and act on children’s perspectives, while children work overtime to explore the issue, build their recommendations, and deepen their understanding of decision‑making realities. The methodology ensures that the topic selected is relevant both to children and to those in power, creating a meaningful link between lived experience and policy priorities. Importantly, authorities are supported to implement the children’s recommendations and are required to report back to them several months later, closing the accountability loop that is essential for genuine, ethical, and impactful child and youth participation.
Focus on Inclusion
Speaking Minds was intentionally designed to reach young people in vocational education, practical education, and lower‑secondary tracks, groups that are often underrepresented in civic and policy processes. By working directly through schools and adapting the methodology to their needs, Speaking Minds ensures that practically educated youth can influence decisions that affect them.
The model is flexible and can be applied to different inclusion groups, as the institution can choose the specific target group relevant to the policy question. This allows for broader participation of young people with diverse backgrounds, abilities, and lived experiences.
Contributors
Organizations and individuals who developed this methodology
Speaking Minds was developed by Save the Children Netherlands in 2016, in collaboration with municipalities (initially Utrecht) and practically educated young people.
Save the Children The Netherands WebsiteTestimonials
Voices from those who have experienced this methodology
