Spanish children's concerns for the future

Abstract

This paper reports on an international study which investigated the hopes and fears of children aged 9-11 for their personal, local and global futures, together with their understanding of key issues such as poverty, racism, the environment, health and conflict. The study indicates the extent to which children feel optimistic about the future, informed about key global issues and motivated to act for change. In this paper we hear the voices of children from Spain. Spanish children’s concerns for both the local and global future are discussed as is their desire to be informed about such issues and involved in action for change. There are implications for curriculum content and service-learning activities involving community action. Findings also indicate the importance these children place on family and relationships, which is discussed in terms of the role both parents and teachers can play in effective education for citizenship. I hope not to be alone… (girl) I’m afraid that we’ll forget our dreams… (girl)