Story perspectives

Rising Classroom Activity Forecasts Higher Scores, College Chances

6/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Andrew E. Koepp of New York University reported third-grade activity rose from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., indicating waning self-regulation.
Larger activity increases predicted higher test scores and a 20 percent greater chance of a four-year degree by age 26.
Mothers who gave more stimulation and sensitivity in preschool raised children with better self-control, reducing activity spikes in third grade.
Activity dips at lunch suggest brief breaks may restore self-control.

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Story summary

Andrew E. Koepp of New York University reported third-grade activity rose from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., indicating waning self-regulation.
Larger activity increases predicted higher test scores and a 20 percent greater chance of a four-year degree by age 26.
Mothers who gave more stimulation and sensitivity in preschool raised children with better self-control, reducing activity spikes in third grade.
Activity dips at lunch suggest brief breaks may restore self-control.