Does Poor Housing Affect A Child’s School Performance: Often we associate children’s report cards with their hard work, attention and intelligence. But recent research shows that children’s educational success does not only depend on their performance in the classroom, but their home environment also plays a big role in it. Poor living conditions, such as overcrowding, dampness or lack of proper heating, affect children’s health as well as their education.

What does the research say?

According to a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, children living in poor quality homes are more absent from school and score lower in key subjects like English and mathematics. Researchers found that children in England who live in poor quality homes miss an average of 15 days more school. Not only this, the test scores of such children were also found to be lower as compared to their peers living in better homes.

Which children were included?

For this study, data of 8,992 children born between 2000 and 2002 were analyzed. At the age of seven, the quality of their home was assessed on six parameters, including type of house, floor level, availability of a garden, presence of dampness, adequate heating and overcrowding. The data showed that about 16 percent of children lived in homes that did not meet at least two of these six standards. These children reported an average of 1.5 more days of absence each year during compulsory schooling classes 1 to 11. Dampness, overcrowding and living conditions in flats were found to be most associated with absenteeism. Differences were also seen at the grade level; English and math scores of children living in poor homes were 2 to 5 percent lower.

What does the researcher say?

Researchers say that noise in crowded homes, lack of space to study, disrupted sleep and additional responsibilities such as taking care of younger siblings affect children’s concentration. At the same time, damp and cold houses increase health problems, which leads to skipping school. The report also shows that if the quality of houses is improved, dampness is reduced, overcrowding is reduced and heating and energy are improved, then it is possible to improve both the health and education of children. Not only this, better housing system can also reduce the expenditure on health services. It is clear that the success of children depends not only on their ability but also on the environment of their home.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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