Nursery World - Under the influence

Early years practitioners tend to see 'peer pressure' as a negative influence on children but, says Jennie Lindon, it can also have a positive effect on a setting's atmosphere As well as all the positive influence that we hope to bring to bear as adults, children can influence each other's behaviour. The phrase 'peer pressure' tends to be used by early years practitioners, and parents as well, to explain situations when children provoke each other into less acceptable behaviour. But of course sometimes the pressure is positive. It is important to allow for ways in which peer pressure can work for a more harmonious day as well as when the influence veers towards disruption.

As well as all the positive influence that we hope to bring to bear as adults, children can influence each other's behaviour. The phrase 'peer pressure' tends to be used by early years practitioners, and parents as well, to explain situations when children provoke each other into less acceptable behaviour. But of course sometimes the pressure is positive. It is important to allow for ways in which peer pressure can work for a more harmonious day as well as when the influence veers towards disruption.

It is worth a few moments of reflection over why we tend to use the term 'peer pressure' more often in terms of negative effects on behaviour.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included