VAAEYC Admin/ June 30, 2025/ Good to Know
I’ve been thinking a lot about how students Learn. Over the years in a classroom, I’ve noticed something powerful: my kiddos often learn just as much from each other as they do from me. Watching them work things out together, copy one another’s strategies, or talk it out when something doesn’t make sense- it’s magic.
That’s exactly what social constructivism is all about. It’s a fancy term, but the idea is simple: kids build understanding through social interactions, shared experiences, and the cultural tools around them- like language, play, storytelling, and real-life problem-solving.
Where Does This Idea Comes From?
This theory draws from the work of Lev Vygotsky, who believed that culture and communication shape how children think. Albert Bandura added the idea that watching and modeling others (especially peers) helps kids learn new behaviors and skills.
So much of what we do in early childhood education already reflects this: circle time chats, dramatic play, open-ended questions, peer collaboration, and group problem-solving.
What Does This Looks Like in a Real Classroom?
Let’s say we’re exploring a book together. Instead of jumping straight into comprehension questions, I might pause and ask the group:
- “What do you think that character’s feeling right now?”
- “Has something like this ever happened to you?”
From there, the kiddos usually take off- sharing their thoughts, comparing ideas, or acting it out together. Then we might connect it to real life:
- “How could we be a good friend like that character today?”
These little moments let them make meaning together- and it sticks!
Motivation Looks Different When Students Are Driving the Learning
I’ve seen shy students light up when their peers encourage them. Or a kiddo who’s super into dinosaurs explaining facts to the group, just beaming with confidence! Social learning taps into both intrinsic motivation (curiosity, pride, connection) and extrinsic motivation (being recognized by peers and adults).
When learning feels social and fun, they want to show up for it.
Something to Try
Next time you’re planning an activity or talking about behavior with your class, ask:
- How can I make this more social?
- What can I hand over to the kiddos instead of deciding myself?
- Where might they learn more by watching or talking to each other?
It doesn’t have to be big. Just a little shift can make a big difference.
Why I Come Back to This Approach Again and Again
At the heart of it, this theory reminds me that kiddos don’t develop in a bubble. They bring their backgrounds, family values, and social cues into everything they do. By giving them room to express themselves, learn from one another, and take ownership of their space, we’re not just teaching lessons- we’re building community.
Brittany Lathrop