Educating Multiples Comes Down to Individualized Learning

One of the most complex debates that parents of twins, triplets, and multiples will face occurs when their children reach school age. In particular the usual debate revolves around the concept of separating the multiples in the world of education. Both sides of the debate showcase excellent points based around the social and educational development of the children. No matter the side of the fence the majority of teachers will state the most important part of educating multiples comes from approaching each child with a completely individualized care and lesson planning.

A major concern with the rapid rise in the birth of twins and multiples arises when it comes to education. With an already significant shortage of well trained teachers and an even greater shortage of personnel trained in the needs of twins and multiples, this leaves not only parents worried that their children are being properly educated and nurtured, but also leaves schools at a disadvantage and struggling to cope with educating multiples.

Becca King, a retired Kindergarten through eighth grade instructor for the Three Rivers School District has taught numerous twins throughout her years as an educator. She feels that twins should not be treated differently than any other students, but does agree that instructors should be aware of the intricacies that come with twins, triplets and multiples. In terms of the separation or the same classroom debate Becca believes that leaving it up to the parent is important, but more importantly, approach each child like individuals.

“Let them show you who they are. I taught middle school,” she says with a bright smile and chuckle, “and believe me they will tell you who they are real fast!”

Encouragement of that is vital when it comes to increasing the confidence of each student, especially ones like multiples who are used to being defined by their titles like “twin” or “multiple.”

Generally multiples, twins in particular, enjoy being together and often as Becca states, in her experience, they tend to hold each other accountable. They see each other as a reflection of one another as well as having an undeniable bond as a team. This can be helpful in the classroom as a natural competitiveness between multiples can provide a gentle challenge when nurtured correctly. This is not to underestimate the risks of rivalry between twins, but instead to know that within a classroom setting a healthy challenge could help create a stronger focus on studies with each student.

Another argument provides the notion that having twins within the classroom could increase a lack of focus or lead to further distraction. The argument for separation is just as strong as the general consensus believes it allows for further encouragement of individuality and growth as separate beings. In other articles many adult twins have discussed that being separate would have allowed them to be closer as their differences would have flourished further than they had while in the same classes.

No matter the side, both arguments prove significant pros and cons. Each parent should approach their multiples as individual students with separate learning styles and needs. Having an open and honest discussion with each instructor and parent is crucial in providing what multiples need in order to successfully educate them.