THIS ARTICLE EXAMINES THE research approach used in a case study of young children's involvement in a kindergarten environmental education program. Three key principles underpinned the research process. These principles were trusting relationships, respectful communication and democratic participation, and they were seen as ways to find solutions to ethical issues around children as participating partners in research. The approach allowed for children's voices to be heard and their contribution to the research valued. The premise of this approach is linked to a key principle of early childhood education for sustainability (ECEfS)—democratic participation which highly values the contribution that children make to discussions on environmental issues related to their lives and interests.
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