Benefits of retention

What do you think the benefits are? I teach 1st grade and am debating of retaining a student. I've done some research about it and there seems to be many negatives on it. What do you think the benefits of retention are, especially in the primary grades?

Re: Benefits of retention

If you honestly feel that student is not ready for the 2nd grade course work, then retain them...its not fair to the student to send them on, when they will struggle...I'm retaining two of my students, IMO its for the best.
I think sending them on will do more harm then keeping them behind.

Re: Benefits of retention

i don't believe in retention above kindergarten--and that would only be for lack of maturity affecting academics and social skills. if this child has been struggling all year, what interventions have you and the other teachers tried? has this child been brought up for testing? are the parents aware and helping? he/she may have a learning disability or unsupportive homelife. in those cases, retention is the wrong choice. if the child has been tested and does not have any disabilities or limitations, what has been done on his behalf by the school--tutoring, extra help, parent training?

if all of these options have been exhausted, retention *may* be appropriate. but to hold a child back that young because they are not doing well is more of a detriment that a help, IMPO. retaining them will do more harm and won't solve the problem