“Then you want everyone to be friends, and [having] friends is important for learning, I think”: The Role of Peers in Children’s Integration, Participation and Learning

Abstract

Although the importance of social contexts in general and peer relationships in particular for integration and learning is widely recognized, the role of children as co-constructors in shaping these processes remains insufficiently considered. Previous studies either have focused on the individual or on macro-level-processes, thus, neglecting the micro- and meso-level with their emphasis on exchanges and interrelations among children and between children and their social environments. Addressing this gap and illuminating both levels, the present article combines Bronfenbrenner’s theory with the notion of “doing peer relations, and brings together the perspectives of children and professionals. Analyses were based on qualitative interviews in four European countries that were realized within a larger project on integration and participation of migrant children. Results show the great potential of peer relations for integration and learning, which needs to be used more strongly. Conclusions for practitioners in the fields of education and social work will be discussed.