This conference aims to introduce a non-specialist audience to the concept of Childism as developed in childhood studies, with a particular focus on adultist violence—both symbolic and concrete—that shapes children’s lives and futures.

Childism is a growing transdisciplinary field that critiques adult-centric power dynamics across society, academia, and culture. Inspired by transformative movements like feminism and anti-racism, it helps us reimagine human development through the principles of relationality, non-hierarchy, and care. By placing the socio-cultural constructions of childhood and adulthood at the center of inquiry, Childism serves as a transformative lens to challenge adultism—the oppressive dominance of adult norms, expectations, and structures.

Childism questions deeply ingrained notions of authority and violence, long seen as necessary for shaping obedient and well-adjusted children in both private and public spaces. It critiques symbolic violence, such as adults’ inaction on the climate crisis and the dismissal of youth voices, alongside the concrete violence that persists in parenting practices across the globe.

Though oppressive adultist methods have been normalized across times and cultures, emerging neuroscience research reveals their harmful and counterproductive effects on children’s development, self-confidence and the overall social fabric. These findings echo the long-standing advocacy of communities calling for children's extended rights and non-violent approaches, bringing their message to the forefront of public debate.

This event offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Adultism and sharpen your Childist lens. Through an interactive format, you’ll engage in personal reflexivity, participate in a worldbuilding workshop, and gain insights from expert contributions by both “childist” adults and children. The conference will start with a powerful performance by César, a 11-year-old rapper who advocates for climate justice and biodiversity through his music.