<p>Aim To describe and evaluate two approaches – a storyboard and a wordsearch – that the authors used with children aged four to 12 years to obtain assent.</p> <p>Background The assent process is vital in helping children to understand the elements of a research project and to make a choice of whether or not to participate. However, the methods for obtaining assent are not well documented.</p> <p>Data sources Two researchers’ thematic reviews of the primary researcher’s field notes, taken during a study of eating problems during chemotherapy.</p> <p>Discussion The assent process appeared to be an enjoyable, positive experience for many children. They appeared to understand what participation entailed – that it was voluntary and that they had a choice.</p> <p>Conclusion When using child-centred techniques, children are aware of what being in a research study will mean to them.</p> <p>Implications for practice Researchers can be confident in gaining assent from children as young as five years.</p>