What does this research mean for the field?

Successful 'teens as teachers' programs critically depend on the presence of a dedicated adult to support the teen educators, alongside complex planning, skilled implementation, active recruitment, and a strong curriculum. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.INCREMENTAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

This study aims to identify the practices that contribute to the positive outcomes observed in teenagers teaching younger children.

May 28, 2026

Teenagers as Teachers Programs: Ten Essential Elements

Key Points

This study aims to identify the practices that contribute to the positive outcomes observed in teenagers teaching younger children.
Qualitative study involving 14 teenagers as teachers programs
Utilized in-depth individual and group interviews to gather data
Focused on identifying current practices and essential program elements.
Positive outcomes were linked to skilled program implementation and planning.
The presence of a supportive adult was identified as the most critical element for success.
Active recruitment strategies and a strong curriculum were also found to be essential.

Abstract

Teenagers teaching younger children can be beneficial to both the children whom they teach and the teens themselves. This qualitative study identified current practices in 14 teens as teachers programs that contribute to positive outcomes for teenaged teachers and the children. Using in-depth individual and group interviews, this study found that complex planning and skilled implementation are requisite in programs with positive outcomes. A dedicated adult who supported teens was found to be the most critical element in successful programs. Other essential elements included active recruitment strategies and a strong curriculum.

Bookmark

Teenagers as Teachers Programs: Ten Essential Elements

Key Points

Abstract

Cite This Study

Also Consider

Also Consider