By Joanna Aramini

Many people share the belief that twins don’t learn to become independent when in the same elementary classes. But, is this really the case? Why do teachers push for the separation of twins at such a young age?

According to the study done by California State University, 71% of principals, 49% of teachers, and 38% of parents believe twins should be separated in elementary school. According to the study, it is believed that twins will do better academically when they are placed in separate classes at a young age. Researchers view the advantages of separation of twins as:

• Fewer comparisons with each other

• Increased independence, and perhaps less competitiveness

• Fewer opportunities for twins to run interference with one another behaviorally

• More chances to develop their own friends

Although this may be true in some cases, it may not be in others. All sets of twins are different and at such a young age, parents often are the ones who know best for their children and their needs.

Personally, I believe that twins should not be forced to separate, especially at such a young age. Instead of having the school system decide, their parents should be the ones to make that decision. Being a twin, I do not think being separated or not in the classroom has a major effect on the individualizing of each twin; sitting next to your twin in a class or being down the hall from one another does not determine the type of person each will become. My twin brother and I have been in the same classes (or at least one of the same) every single year of our schooling, starting with preschool, and we have grown to become independant. Rather, I think being in the same class as your twin only encourages you to become your own person.

“Special Delivery: Twins at School.” Scholastic Publishes Literacy Resources and Children’s Books for Kids of All Ages. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2014.

“Pros and Cons of Placing Twins in the Same Class.” Twin Parents. N.p., 14 Nov. 2013. Web. 20 Oct. 2014.