Children as archive producers, participants, and agents: introduction to the special issue on children and archives

This introduction to the special issue, 'Children and Archives,' offers a multifaceted exploration of how children engage with archives, not only as subjects but also as active participants, producers, and agents. Drawing from interdisciplinary fields such as childhood studies, history, and archival science, this issue challenges traditional archival practices that often marginalize children's voices. The articles within span a wide range of areas, from historical records to contemporary settings, and discuss various types of materials, including children's letters, health records, photographs, drawings, natural objects, oral histories, and ethical considerations. The aim of this special issue is to inspire a rethinking of how archives represent children's lives, moving beyond the adult-centric narratives typically found in traditional records. It advocates for inclusive and empathetic archival practices. To achieve this, the introduction also highlights the importance and complexities of defining and addressing the concept of 'child' across different archival processes, times, and situations.