In an analysis of 33 different studies, a group of scientists found that teaching kids social skills pays off big time in the classroom, as it can lead to an average 11 percentile point gain in their academic performance over only six months.
Classes that emphasize self control, responsible decision-making and forming positive relationships with friends and authority figures were believed to "affect central executive cognitive functions," said the study's lead author Joseph Durlak. Helping kids better control their impulses, reports Yahoo.com.
What's so significant about this is the dramatic performance improvement in such a small amount of time. It really shows how an unhealthy emotional state can effect all areas of our life and our ability to succeed–whether child or adult, academically or professionally.
- Alexandra Gekas, Associate Editor