This chapter introduces a six-dimensional framework-the " participation compass” -for analysing and enhancing children’s participation in social work. This approach supports practitioners in moving beyond simplistic measures of more or less participation towards a richer understanding of its forms, purposes, and effects. Drawing on empirical research, participation theory, and practice experience, the chapter outlines six key dimensions that shape participatory encounters, such as information, space, influence, relational trust, and follow-through. It uses case examples to show how different configurations of these dimensions produce very different experiences for children, even when participation appears similar on the surface. The framework invites practitioners to reflect on questions such as: Who initiates participation? What is its purpose? How is children’s input used? What changes as a result? The chapter emphasises that meaningful participation requires attention to not only voice but also impact and that superficial involvement can reproduce, rather than challenge, established power imbalances. It contributes to the book by offering a practical, accessible tool for embedding Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child into everyday social work. The compass is presented as both a reflective device and a planning aid for designing more intentional, rights-based participatory practice.