Children wont to have a say
The Children’s Health Foundation provides details about participation in health care and the results of a representative survey
Munich, December 22, 2025 – Children and young people want to understand what is happening to their health and they want to have a say. This is shown by the current child health report 2025 from the Children’s Health Foundation, for which a representative forsa survey of 1,006 parents and their children between the ages of 8 and 17 was carried out.
“Children are not just passive patients, but active participants in their own health care,” emphasizes pediatrician Prof. dr. Berthold Koletzko, chairman of the Munich-based Children’s Health Foundation. “We know from studies that they benefit significantly from understandable information and real participation. It is our job to create framework conditions that enable children to use their voice and be heard.”
Children and young people should be involved in decisions that affect their health in an age-appropriate manner. This includes listening to them, giving them understandable information, being allowed to ask questions and – depending on their age – being included in decisions. this right is enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and applies to all children.
What children experience today
The survey carried out by the Children’s Health Foundation with the forsa Institute shows a predominantly positive picture. Almost all children (97 percent) knew why they were going to the doctor when they last visited the doctor. A large majority (88 percent) felt that they were taken seriously, and around two thirds received explanations about examinations and treatments. The assessments of parents and children differ only slightly.
At the same time, however, it becomes clear that participation is often not enough: around a third of the children and young people surveyed reported that they had littl
Child-Friendly Healthcare: Empowering Young Patients through Participation
Table of Contents
Berlin, Germany – December 22, 2025 – A new focus on actively involving children and young people in their own healthcare is gaining momentum, with a recent report highlighting the positive foundations already in place within many German medical practices.The 2025 Children’s Health Report emphasizes the importance of clear dialog, partnership, and reflection to foster self-efficacy and improve healthcare experiences for young patients.
The Importance of Patient Participation
Traditionally, healthcare decisions concerning children have been made for them, often with limited input from the child themselves. However, research increasingly demonstrates the benefits of actively engaging young patients in their care. This approach not only respects their autonomy but also leads to better health outcomes.
Key to this shift is recognizing children as active partners,not passive recipients,of healthcare. This means:
* Clear and Understandable Communication: Doctors and nurses should use language appropriate for the child’s age and understanding, avoiding medical jargon. Resources like the German Federal Center for Health Education (BZgA) offer guidance on health literacy and communication strategies.
* Shared Decision-Making: Where appropriate, involving children in decisions about their treatment, allowing them to express their preferences and concerns.
* Post-Appointment reflection: A brief conversation after an appointment – with both the child and their parents – to discuss what went well, what was challenging, and how future visits coudl be improved. This process helps children understand their needs and builds confidence in navigating the healthcare system.
Foundations for Success Already Exist
The 2025 Children’s Health Report offers an optimistic outlook, noting that many doctors’ practices and clinics in Germany are already implementing elements of child-friendly care. This includes a growing awareness of the need for age-appropriate communication and a willingness to listen to children’s perspectives.
“With clear, understandable communication and an attitude that sees children and young people as active partners in their own health care, doctors and nursing staff, together with parents, can help ensure that participation becomes an integral part of child-friendly health care,” the report states.
Benefits of Empowering Young Patients
Empowering children in their healthcare journey offers numerous benefits:
* Increased self-Efficacy: When children feel heard and involved, they develop a stronger sense of control over their health.
* Improved adherence to Treatment: Children are more likely to follow treatment plans when they understand the reasons behind them and have a say in the process.
* Reduced Anxiety: Active participation can alleviate fear and anxiety associated with medical visits.
* Enhanced Health Literacy: Engaging in discussions about their health helps children develop a better understanding of their bodies and how to stay healthy.
Looking Ahead
The move towards child-friendly healthcare represents a meaningful step forward in providing holistic and patient-centered care. Continued investment in training for healthcare professionals,coupled with resources for parents and children,will be crucial to ensuring that all young people have the opportunity to actively participate in their own well-being. Further research into best practices and the long-term impact of patient participation will also be essential to refine and improve these approaches.
Features of this press release:
* Target Audience: Journalists, everyone
* Topics: Nutrition / health / care, medicine, pedagogy / education, psychology
* Geographic Focus: Nationally (Germany)
* Content Type: Colorful science, research results
* Language: German (translated for broader accessibility)