Developmental Theories: Understanding Children Better by Kemiya

Developmental Theories: Understanding Children Better by Kemiya - July 2026 Scholarship Essay

My name is Kemiya Brister, and I attend McComb High School. One academic topic that truly challenged and transformed me was child development theories, which I studied in my Educator Preparation class. This class is designed not just to teach what it takes to become a teacher, but also to encourage students to appreciate the teaching profession itself. We examined the different levels of education a teacher can hold and explored a wide range of teaching strategies for addressing various learning disabilities. The class required us to analyze case studies, reflect on classroom scenarios, and debate the effectiveness of different teaching styles, all of which sharpened my analytical and critical thinking abilities. In addition, we learned about classroom management, lesson planning, and the importance of building positive relationships with students and their families.

One of these subjects, child development theories, explores children’s behaviors across different age groups. I learned about theories developed and studied by many psychologists, including Jean Piaget, Lev Vygotsky, and Erik Erikson. Each theory challenged me to compare different viewpoints and question my own assumptions about how and why children behave as they do. Piaget’s Cognitive Developmental Theory proposes that a child’s intelligence changes as they interact with the world around them, which made me reflect on the importance of hands-on learning and adaptability in teaching. Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory shows how a child’s cognitive ability is shaped by social and cultural contexts, teaching me to consider the impact that relationships and the environment have on learning. Erikson’s theory, my favorite, explains how a person goes through eight psychosocial stages and how overcoming them leads to personal growth. Analyzing how each stage builds on the previous one helped me see the importance of understanding individual differences and the complexity of human development. I also discovered that these theories are widely used by teachers to guide classroom practices and understand student development. The complexity and research involved in these theories confused me at first, but grappling with these challenges forced me to break down concepts, ask questions, and seek evidence. As I studied them more closely, I started to see their real-life applications. It often made me think about the children in my life, such as cousins, siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends. For example, the reason my nephew always says no when I tell him to behave is not because he is “hard-headed” but because he is practicing his independence and testing the household's social structure, which is explained by a principle in Erikson’s Cognitive Theory, Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt. This milestone explains that a child aged three to five will start to assert their independence and want to make decisions on their own. Or, when a child asks their parents a million questions about the world, they're just exhibiting Vygotsky’s concept of the More Knowledgeable Other. This shows how a child’s learning is guided by interaction and how they choose to ask questions to someone they view as more informed about the subject.

Before I truly understood these theories and behaviors, I often felt frustrated and helpless when a child was upset or acting out. I questioned whether I was doing something wrong or if I just wasn’t meant to connect with them. But learning about child development changed that for me and became a turning point in how I view children and myself. I realized that every outburst, every stubborn refusal, and every moment of joy is a child’s way of communicating their needs, feelings, and growth. Now, when I see an upset child, I no longer feel powerless. Instead, I approach them with patience and a genuine desire to understand what they’re experiencing. This shift in perspective has made me not only a better student but also a more compassionate sister, cousin, aunt, and friend. It helps me appreciate the small moments a child gives, such as the trust they show when they reach out for comfort, or the pride in their eyes when they accomplish something new.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges and lessons that studying child development theories has given me. These experiences have not only shaped my academic journey but also influenced the kind of person I strive to be in the future. Understanding the unique needs and perspectives of children has taught me to pause, ask questions, and consider multiple viewpoints before forming conclusions. Analyzing different theories encourages me to look beyond the surface and think critically about why people, including children, behave as they do. I find myself weighing evidence, looking for patterns, and reflecting on how context shapes actions, both in my studies and in daily life. This ability to think critically has empowered me not only to make a positive difference but also to approach all challenges with an open mind and a thoughtful perspective. I look forward to using this knowledge to inspire, support, and challenge myself and others to see the world with greater understanding and empathy.