Teachers note that when brothers and sisters study in different classes, or in one, their development is different. So which is better? When do children study in the same class or parallel?
Should children be placed in the same class?
It all depends on the relationship between the children. Friendly guys who protect each other and are ready to help in difficult times will go through school adaptation much faster and more confidently than if they were in different classes, even in the neighborhood.
One can suggest something, the other can explain, and in general, they remain the best friends that no one else in the class will have, but the teachers try to seat the brothers and sisters separately so that each of them shows a little more independence during the lesson.
Other children may not get along with each other from kindergarten. The incompatibility of temperaments becomes a real problem when they are in the same class. The constant struggle for superiority, endless disputes and mutual reproaches lead to enmity and a decrease in academic performance.
With separation, the benefits of social development are observed. A closed child will acquire a valuable skill in communicating with other peers, and a self-confident child will be convinced that he is not always right. Different experiences are another advantage that will help unite constantly quarreling children.
As for the decision on the part of the teacher, he makes a conclusion after talking with the parents and observing. Usually, it is easier for the teacher to find an approach when the children are together, because they are from the same family and have a similar level of knowledge, but if the students often quarrel, they will prefer the division into classes.
Twins in the same class – yes or no?
In this case, the opinion of experts is divided, some psychologists argue that the separation will contribute to individual development, but there is no scientific evidence for this.
Rather, on the contrary, practice shows that together they cope better with the difficulties that have arisen, especially when they are used to doing everything together. If one of the children is dominant, the other may feel lonely without his support.
The University of Wisconsin and King’s College London have provided a set of data explaining how harmful it can be to separate twins at school. The study was conducted in 2004 with the participation of more than 800 pairs of schoolchildren aged 5 to 7 years.
The sample was divided into three groups, in the first, the children never parted and entered the same class together. In the second group, the children studied in different classes, but previously they were always together. In the third, the students were separated after seven years. The results are as follows:
- A group of children in different classes, provided that they had not previously separated, showed more behavioral and emotional problems. They looked withdrawn, uncertain and afraid. In identical twins, these signs were pronounced. The twins overcame their difficulties after the second quarter of training.
- Children who never separated had fewer problems than the previous ones, including with learning.
- Separation after seven years had a negative impact on academic performance and behavioral factors.
With separation, increased competition and manifestation of depression are possible. However, there is also a share of advantages. For example, the teacher will compare the child not with a close relative, but with classmates, which will not cause jealousy of a brother or sister.
Children learn to be independent as they are given more choice in their personal actions. Their own social circle and hobbies are formed without too much abstraction to think about how a brother would have done or acted.
When making a decision, it is worth considering all the nuances. Some children spend 24 hours a day together without problems, others tend to clash. If in doubt about the choice, it is better to contact a child psychologist.