Determining factors of schooling twins together or separately in the foundation phase

Abstract

The schooling of twins can be daunting and challenging for twins, parents and educators. Separation or non-separation during the foundation phase cannot be left to chance. The process of deciding whether it is in both twins’ best interest to school them together or separately relies on various factors, which includes premature birth, individuality, dominance, relationship type and friendship-forming patterns. Parties involved in making the decision must consider each twin’s emotional, cognitive, behavioural, and social development. Premature separation of twins can lead to internal as well as external behaviour problems, while non-separation of mature twins may be detrimental to each twin’s individual progress and development. The study aimed to identify the determining factors when deciding upon schooling twins together or separately when they enter into the foundation phase. Existing school policies regarding classroom allocation of twins were considered. Three sets of twins, including teachers, parents, twins and other significant individuals involved in the process of separation or non-separation, were interviewed. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to assist parents and educators in making informed decisions about the schooling of twins.