They teach what is acceptable and what's not, and how to live by the rules that are a fact of life. Playmates provide new ways to play, think, talk and get along. Your child will question you and learn about what you value in friendships. This information and the actual experiences he encounters will help your child grow in his relationships. Functions of Peers Family Replacement.
Peer groups provide a certain status independent of one's family.
They also can be a stabilizing influence during this time of growth and change in a child's life. Peers can provide a positive influence on a child's self- esteem. It's a good feeling to be important to someone outside the family unit. Children need group support to gather necessary strength to eventually stand on their own. Contact with peers exposes children to values different from their parents'.