[ARTICLE] Are Boys Bad? No, But Why Do They Receive 71% of Discipline Referrals?

The educational system is facing a significant challenge: boys are struggling in school at much higher rates than girls. Does this mean boys are inherently bad? Absolutely not. It means our educational system needs to take a closer look at the brain development of boys and girls and provide an environment that fosters growth and development for both. Here’s why this issue demands our urgent attention and what we can do to create a more equitable and supportive learning environment for boys.

The Statistics: Boys Falling Behind

Current statistics paint a concerning picture:

• Boys are 30% more likely to be held back, drop out, or fail classes.
• 71% of discipline referrals are for boys.
• Black boys are suspended three times more than white boys.
• Boys account for nearly 80% of children diagnosed with ADHD.
• Boys are twice as likely to receive special education services.
  
  

Why Is This Happening?

If boys are not inherently bad, why is there such a disparity in educational outcomes between boys and girls?

• Brain Development Differences: Boys and girls develop at different rates. Boys often develop language and fine motor skills later than girls, which can affect early academic performance.
• Activity Needs: Boys typically have higher activity levels and need more physical movement, which is often restricted in traditional classroom settings.
• Discipline Disparities: Boys, especially minority boys, face harsher disciplinary actions. Suspending boys contributes to the "Pipeline to Prison," where students who are frequently suspended are more likely to drop out and become involved in the criminal justice system.
• Learning Styles: Boys often thrive on hands-on, active learning and can struggle with traditional, sedentary classroom environments.
  
  

What Boys Need to Thrive

Research indicates that to help boys succeed, schools need to:

• Incorporate Movement: Allow boys to move throughout the day.
• Challenge and Engage: Use group activities and challenges to keep boys engaged.
• Preserve Recess: Recess should never be eliminated as punishment; boys need this time to recharge.
  
  

Boys Thrive on Movement

Studies show that boys need more physical activity than girls to stay focused and engaged. Here are some effective strategies to incorporate movement in the classroom:

• Brain Breaks: Short, frequent breaks that involve physical activity can help boys reset and refocus.
• Active Learning: Incorporate activities that involve movement, such as scavenger hunts or interactive lessons.
• Flexible Seating: Use standing desks, balance balls, or wiggle seats to allow movement while working.
• Outdoor Learning: Take lessons outside where boys can move more freely.
• Movement Stations: Set up different stations in the classroom where boys can rotate and engage in various activities.
  
  

Creating Regulation Spaces

Creating spaces for boys to regulate their energy can significantly impact their learning:

• Wellness Rooms: Designate areas where students can move their bodies for 10 minutes to help regulate energy and emotions.
• Daily Physical Activity: Incorporate walking or running a mile each day, which has been shown to boost learning and retention.
• Regulation Corners: Create quiet spaces in the classroom for students to take a break and reset.
  
  

The Benefits of Movement and Brain Breaks

Research shows that incorporating movement and brain breaks throughout the day improves academic performance:

• Increased Focus and Retention: Students who engage in regular physical activity have better focus and memory.
• Higher Test Scores: Classrooms that incorporate brain breaks see significant improvements in test scores.
• Reduced Behavior Issues: Movement helps reduce behavioral issues, leading to a more positive classroom environment.
  
  

A Call to Action: We Must Do Better

Our current educational system is not adequately supporting boys, and the statistics are alarming. But we have the power to change this by understanding and addressing the unique needs of boys, we can create a more equitable and effective educational environment. Here’s how:

• Advocate for Movement: Push for policies that incorporate more physical activity in schools.
• Implement Flexible Learning: Support teaching methods that cater to different learning styles.
• Create Supportive Spaces: Develop wellness rooms and regulation corners to help boys manage their energy and emotions.
• Prioritize Equity in Discipline: Work to eliminate disparities in disciplinary actions and support restorative practices.
• Implement Generation Wellness Programs: The foundational training provides educators with strategies such as the regulation spaces, brain breaks, movement activities, and more ready for immediate implementation in classrooms. 

If your staff can't make it to our training, we also have an on-demand online toolkit with over 100+ practices for student wellness, as well as full coverage of our foundational training. 

Empowering Our Boys

Boys deserve an educational system that recognizes and supports their unique needs. By making these changes, we can help boys thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Let’s take action now to create a brighter future for all our students.

Join the Movement for Change

Our boys are counting on us. Implement these strategies in your classroom and advocate for school-wide changes. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.