Interviewing children is a delicate art, demanding far more than the standard journalistic toolkit. It requires a profound understanding of developmental psychology, an unwavering commitment to safeguarding, and a nuanced approach to communication that prioritizes the child’s well-being above all else. This isn’t just about getting a story; it’s about fostering trust, ensuring safety, and responsibly amplifying voices that are often marginalized or misinterpreted. For writers, the stakes are exceptionally high. A carelessly phrased question, a misunderstood gesture, or an ill-conceived setting can cause distress, compromise accuracy, and even put a child at risk. This guide offers a definitive, actionable framework to navigate these complexities, ensuring your interviews with children are not only productive but profoundly ethical and respectful.
The Foundation: Understanding the Unique Landscape of Child Interviews
Before even thinking about questions, we must internalize a fundamental truth: children are not miniature adults. Their cognitive abilities, emotional regulation, memory recall, and understanding of causality differ significantly across various developmental stages. This means the very bedrock of our interviewing approach must shift.
1. Developmental Nuance: Age is More Than Just a Number
A five-year-old’s ability to articulate complex feelings is vastly different from a ten-year-old’s. A teenager, while more verbally sophisticated, may still struggle with abstract concepts or feel immense pressure to conform.
- For example, with Ages 3-6: Please don’t ask, “How did that experience make you feel emotionally?” Instead, try, “Did that make your tummy feel wobbly, or your heart feel fast?” or “If that feeling were a color, what color would it be?” Use tangible, sensory language.
- For example, with Ages 7-10: Let’s avoid “Why did you do that?” which can sound accusatory. Instead, try “What were you thinking when that happened?” or “What led to that?” allowing for a more narrative response.
- For example, with Ages 11-14: While they grasp more complex ideas, abstract questions like “What are your aspirations?” might be better framed as “What do you imagine yourself doing when you’re older?” or “What kind of work excites you?”
- For example, with Ages 15+: Treat them with increasing respect for their autonomy and intellect, but acknowledge they are still developing. “What’s your perspective on X issue?” is appropriate, but be prepared for thoughtful silence or a desire to consult with a parent before answering sensitive questions.
What I’ve learned: Before any interview, research the typical cognitive and emotional milestones for the child’s specific age group. Tailor your language, question complexity, and even the length of the interview accordingly.
2. The Power Imbalance: Acknowledging and Mitigating It
As adults, we inherently possess more power, authority, and life experience than a child. This imbalance, if unchecked, can lead to children feeling coerced, intimidated, or compelled to please the interviewer.
- For example, concerning mitigation: Instead of immediately launching into questions, start with “I’m here to learn about your experiences, and your words are important. You can tell me anything you want, or nothing at all. It’s totally up to you.” This explicitly cedes control to the child.
- For example, concerning the setting: If in a school, don’t sit opposite them at a large desk, which can feel confrontational. Sit beside them at a small table, or on the floor. If online, ensure their camera is at eye level, not looking down at them.
What I’ve learned: From the moment of introduction, actively work to level the playing field. Use open body language, a calm tone, and clear statements that emphasize the child’s control over the interview process.
3. Safeguarding First: Beyond Mere Compliance
Safeguarding isn’t a checklist; it’s a mindset. It means actively identifying and mitigating potential risks to the child’s physical and psychological well-being. This requires robust preparation and ongoing vigilance.
- For example, with permission: Always, always obtain informed consent from a legal guardian before approaching the child. This consent must be detailed, explaining the purpose of the interview, how the information will be used, who will see it, and the child’s right to withdraw at any time. Ideally, have a separate consent form tailored for the child to also sign (or mark with an X if too young to write), clearly outlining their rights in child-friendly language.
- For example, with a chaperone: A trusted adult (parent, guardian, teacher) should always be present in the vicinity, but not necessarily in the room if it inhibits the child. Their presence should be clearly communicated to the child. “Your mom is just outside if you need her.” If the child requests the adult be in the room, respect that. If the topic is sensitive, however, discuss with the guardian beforehand the possibility of a brief private moment if the child is comfortable, and ensure the guardian understands why that might be beneficial (e.g., to share something they might not want their parent to hear immediately).
- For example, with duty to report: Know your legal and ethical obligations regarding reporting disclosures of harm or abuse. This is non-negotiable. Have the relevant contact information for child protective services or a designated safeguarding lead readily available. If a child discloses abuse, your role shifts from interviewer to mandatory reporter. Don’t probe for details; simply listen, reassure the child they are brave, and immediately follow reporting protocols.
What I’ve learned: Before any interview, establish clear safeguarding protocols with the child’s guardian and any relevant institution (e.g., school). Have a plan for how you will respond to sensitive disclosures and adhere to it strictly.
The Prep Work: Setting the Stage for Success
Successful child interviews are built on meticulous preparation, extending far beyond typical research.
1. The “Why”: Clarifying Your Purpose (for Them and You)
Be crystal clear about the interview’s objective, not just for your story, but in terms the child can grasp. Vague answers breed confusion and distrust.
- For example, with a clear purpose: Instead of “I’m writing an article about foster care,” try “I’m trying to help other kids who are going into foster care feel a little less scared, and your words can help me do that.” Or, “I want to show people how wonderful your school’s art program is, and to do that, I’d like to hear about your favorite projects.”
- For example, with the benefits: Frame the purpose in terms of what the child’s contribution will achieve, even if indirect. “By sharing your ideas, you can help other kids like you understand X,” or “Your story can inspire Y.”
What I’ve learned: Develop a one-sentence, child-friendly explanation of why you’re there and what you hope to achieve. Practice delivering it genuinely.
2. The Environment: Creating a Safe and Inviting Space
The physical and psychological environment profoundly impacts a child’s willingness to open up. Let’s avoid sterile, imposing settings.
- For example, with physical space: Choose a familiar, quiet, and comfortable location where the child feels secure. A corner of their classroom, a designated play area, or their own home (with guardian permission and presence) is often better than a formal office. Ensure the lighting is soft, not harsh. Have age-appropriate activities available (drawing materials, quiet toys) for initial rapport building or quiet moments.
- For example, with psychological safety: Ensure there are no distractions. Turn off your phone. Maintain eye contact (but don’t stare). Adopt an open posture. Speak in a gentle, even tone. Don’t rush. Let silence linger; it often prompts deeper thought.
What I’ve learned: Prioritize comfort and familiarity. The less formal and more relaxed the setting, the more likely a child is to feel at ease.
3. Tools of the Trade: Beyond the Recorder
While a recording device is useful for accuracy (with consent!), other tools can be invaluable, especially for younger children.
- For example, visual aids: Use emotion cards with faces showing different feelings (happy, sad, angry, scared). “Which face feels most like you when that happened?” Or, ask them to draw their “big feeling.”
- For example, metaphor/analogy: “If that problem was a monster, what would it look like?” or “If your worries were birds, how many would there be?” This helps externalize difficult concepts.
- For example, toys/play: For very young children, incorporating play can be incredibly effective. “Can you show me with these dolls what happened?” or “Let’s build a house for your feelings.” This isn’t just play; it’s a communication conduit.
What I’ve learned: Be prepared to adapt your communication tools based on the child’s age, comfort level, and preferred mode of expression.
The Interview Itself: Navigating the Conversation
The actual interview is where all your preparation culminates. It’s a dance of listening, guiding, and responding with empathy.
1. Building Rapport: The Non-Negotiable First Step
Never dive straight into the topic. Spend time, often 10-15 minutes, simply connecting with the child. This isn’t wasted time; it’s an investment in trust.
- For example, with rapport building: Talk about neutral, positive topics: their favorite cartoon, a pet, their hobbies, what they did at school today. “I heard you’re really good at building with LEGOs! What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever built?” Or, “I love your dinosaur shirt! Do you have a favorite dinosaur?” Show genuine interest.
- For example, with body language: Mirror their posture (subtly). Smile. Offer a comforting tone. Get down to their eye level.
What I’ve learned: Prioritize establishing a connection that makes the child feel seen, heard, and safe before venturing into the core subject.
2. Conversational Flow: Gentle Guidance, Not Interrogation
Think of the interview as a conversation, not an interrogation. Allow tangents, respect silence, and use open-ended questions.
- For example, with open-ended questions: Instead of “Was it scary?”, ask “What was it like when that happened?” or “Tell me about X.” This invites a narrative.
- For example, avoiding leading questions: Never ask, “You must have felt very sad, right?” This implants an answer. Instead, “How did you feel when that happened?” or “What feelings came up for you?”
- For example, using “Tell Me More”: When a child offers a brief answer, don’t immediately leap to the next question. Use prompts like “Tell me more about that,” “Can you explain that a little bit?” or “What happened next?”
- For example, patience with silence: If a child pauses, don’t fill the silence immediately. Give them time to process and formulate their thoughts. Sometimes, the most profound answers emerge from quiet reflection. Count to five in your head before speaking.
What I’ve learned: Focus on creating a space where the child feels comfortable sharing their truth, without feeling pressured to provide “the right” answer.
3. Clarification and Comprehension: Ensuring Accuracy
Children may use language differently, or struggle to articulate complex ideas. It’s your responsibility to ensure you understand them, and they understand you.
- For example, paraphrasing for clarity: “So, if I understand correctly, you’re saying that when your friend moved away, you felt a little bit like a piece of your heart went with them? Is that right?” This allows for correction.
- For example, simplifying your language: Break down complex questions into simpler components. “First, tell me about the big noise. What did it sound like? Then, what did you do after you heard it?”
- For example, checking understanding: “Does what I just said make sense to you?” or “Can you tell me in your own words what we just talked about?” especially when discussing consent or sensitive topics.
What I’ve learned: Never assume comprehension. Actively seek to confirm meaning, both theirs and yours, through repetition and open-ended checks.
4. Managing Emotions: Acknowledging, Validating, and Pivoting
Children may become emotional during an interview, especially when discussing difficult subjects. Your response is critical.
- For example, acknowledging emotion: If a child looks sad, “I can see that makes you feel a bit sad. It’s okay to feel sad.” Don’t dismiss or minimize their feelings (“Don’t be sad!”).
- For example, validating and normalizing: “It makes sense that you feel angry about that. Many people would feel angry in that situation.” This normalizes their experience.
- For example, offering a break: “This sounds like a tough memory. Would you like to take a break? We can talk about something else, or stop altogether.” Offer choices.
- For example, pivoting strategically: If a child is overwhelmed, shift to a neutral, positive topic or activity. “Let’s talk about your favorite part of the day instead,” or “Would you like to draw a picture for a bit?”
What I’ve learned: Be prepared for emotional responses. Respond with empathy, offer breaks, and be willing to change the subject or end the interview if the child’s well-being is compromised.
Post-Interview Protocol: Responsible Closure and Follow-Through
The interview doesn’t end when the recorder is turned off. Responsible engagement continues.
1. Debriefing and Closure: Ending on a Positive Note
The final moments of the interview are as important as the first. Leave the child feeling respected, heard, and safe.
- For example, positive reinforcement: “Thank you so much for talking with me today. You shared so many thoughtful ideas, and your words are really going to help.” Be specific rather than generic.
- For example, future contact: Reiterate the next steps if applicable (e.g., “I’ll be writing this story, and your parent will see it before it’s published”). Remind them of their ability to withdraw.
- For example, returning to neutral: End the conversation with positive, neutral small talk, not lingering on sensitive topics. “What’s your favorite thing to do after school?”
What I’ve learned: Conclude the interview thoughtfully, reinforcing the child’s value and control, and leaving them in a positive emotional state.
2. Ethical Review: Before Publication
Before a single word is published, an exhaustive ethical review is paramount.
- For example, guardian review: Always allow the legal guardian to review relevant quotes and content that pertain to the child before publication. This is a crucial step in ensuring accuracy and preventing unintended harm. Be prepared to make requested changes, unless they compromise factual accuracy of the core story (in which case, discuss options or remove the problematic content).
- For example, anonymity/pseudonyms: Discuss anonymity or pseudonyms with the guardian from the outset. For sensitive topics, assume anonymity is required unless explicitly agreed otherwise. Even if public figures, consider the long-term impact on the child versus the short-term journalistic gain.
- For example, de-identifying details: Be mindful of details that, even if seemingly innocuous, could lead to identification. “The girl with the red backpack from Mrs. Smith’s class at Willow Creek Elementary” is too specific. Broaden or generalize such details.
What I’ve learned: Implement a rigorous pre-publication review process that prioritizes the child’s safety and privacy above all else, involving guardians and considering the long-term implications of publication.
Conclusion: A Privilege, Not Just a Process
Interviewing children is not merely a journalistic task; it is a profound privilege. It demands humility, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to ethical principles. Each interaction is an opportunity to empower a young voice, to shed light on an important issue, and to do so in a way that respects their dignity and safeguards their well-being. By internalizing these practices, writers can move beyond superficial engagement, fostering trust and ensuring that the stories of children are told with the care, accuracy, and reverence they deserve. This is not just about avoiding harm; it’s about actively doing good.