Trusting Kids – Creating Spaces for Autonomy and Growth
Introduction
What does it mean to truly trust kids? How can we create environments that honour their autonomy and confront the power dynamics between adults and children? In this episode of The Forest School Podcast, Lewis and Wem explore these questions through the lens of the book Trust Kids! Stories on Youth Autonomy and Confronting Adult Supremacy, edited by Carla Joy Bergman. It’s a thoughtful discussion on rethinking leadership and creating spaces where children can thrive.
The Premise of Trust Kids!
The episode begins with Lewis introducing the book: “It’s a collection of essays and stories about how we, as adults, can step back and let kids take the lead. It challenges the idea that adults always know best.”
Wem reflects on why this is such a powerful concept: “So much of our world is built around adult supremacy—adults deciding what’s important, what’s allowed, and what’s possible. This book is a reminder that kids have their own wisdom, their own ideas, and their own ways of navigating the world.”
Trust as a Radical Act
A recurring theme in the conversation is that trusting kids is a radical act in a society that often underestimates them. Wem explains: “When we trust kids, we’re saying, ‘I see you as capable, as whole, as someone who doesn’t need to be controlled or fixed.’ That’s a radical shift from the way most systems treat children.”
Lewis adds: “It’s not about abandoning guidance—it’s about creating space for kids to lead, to make mistakes, and to figure things out on their own terms.”
The Role of Adults
The hosts discuss the role of adults in supporting autonomy without overstepping. Wem notes: “It’s not about being hands-off. It’s about being a guide, a resource, and a partner. It’s about saying, ‘I’m here if you need me, but I trust you to know what you need.’”
Lewis shares an example from a Forest School session: “A child wanted to build a really ambitious structure. I could’ve stepped in with advice, but instead, I let them experiment. They didn’t get it perfect, but they learned so much in the process. That’s what trust looks like.”
Confronting Adult Supremacy
A key takeaway from the book is the need to confront adult supremacy—the idea that adults always know best or have the right to control children. Wem reflects: “It’s hard to let go of that mindset because it’s so ingrained. But when we hold on to it, we’re missing out on the incredible things kids can teach us.”
Lewis adds: “When we dominate a space, we’re not just taking away kids’ autonomy—we’re taking away their opportunity to surprise us, to lead, and to grow.”
Practical Steps for Building Trust
The hosts share practical advice for fostering trust and autonomy in Forest School settings:
Start with Listening:
Wem suggests: “Ask kids what they want to do, what they need, and what they’re interested in. Then really listen to their answers.”Embrace Mistakes:
“Trust means letting kids make mistakes,” Lewis says. “That’s where real learning happens.”Be a Partner, Not a Boss:
Wem advises: “Think of yourself as a collaborator. How can you support the group without taking over?”Reflect on Your Power:
Lewis notes: “Ask yourself, ‘Am I making this decision because it’s what the kids need, or because it’s what I’m comfortable with?’”
The Impact of Trust
The episode concludes with a reflection on the transformative power of trust. Wem shares: “When we trust kids, we’re not just empowering them—we’re also freeing ourselves from the pressure to control everything. It’s liberating for everyone.”
Lewis adds: “Trusting kids isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. The more we let go, the more we see what they’re capable of.”
Conclusion
Trusting kids is about more than just stepping back—it’s about creating spaces where their voices, choices, and ideas are valued. As Lewis and Wem explore in this episode, it’s a shift that challenges traditional power dynamics but ultimately leads to richer, more meaningful learning experiences. By trusting kids, we give them the tools to grow, thrive, and surprise us in the best possible ways.