“Immigration experiences through the eyes / lens of children”
The present study attempts to highlight the ways through which children of an immigrant background are able to achieve the transition from the home world to the school world and the ways through which this transition affects their identities and childhood experiences. It treats children as conscious social subjects and adopts a child-centered approach at both theoretical and research level. It follows the principles and methodology of Photovoice and asks children to capture aspects of themselves through their photographs and texts. The survey was conducted between January and June 2019 in weekly meetings including seven children from the last three grades of the same elementary school. The analysis of the material gathered (photos, texts, transcripts and group discussions, personal meeting logs and a research diary) has emerged some key themes revolving around the notion of identity. Specifically, issues related to the need for belonging, multiple affiliations, social exclusion and class restrictions, concerns and fears, dreams for the future have become apparent. In conclusion, it appeared that the research process worked for children as an empowerment process. They have produced knowledge, have been actively involved, have pondered and critically analyzed the facts of their lives. They have ballanced between their multiple identities and their diverse backgrounds.