We are often asked where our belief in a mixed age setting comes from. The simple answer is from family. A family is usually a mixed age setting, and our nursery is just one big family. In our nursery, we embrace the concept of mixed age settings not merely as a structure, but as an enriching approach to learning. Each child’s development is supported by this familial structure, where older and younger children learn from one another through everyday interactions, creating a nurturing environment that prepares them for the wider world.
In a family, older children talk to the younger siblings, involve them in their play, and become an extra set of eyes on the baby if Mam or Dad is washing dishes. This not only fosters a sense of responsibility in the older sibling but also enhances their communication skills. For example, when an older child patiently explains the rules of a game to a younger sibling, they are simultaneously reinforcing their own understanding and developing patience. Older children have to wait for their parent to return to the game of Scrabble if the baby needs to be changed or fed. This teaches them that sometimes life requires waiting, which is an important lesson. Moreover, when faced with situations where their younger brother snatches one of their Barbies just as they were getting to the interesting part of the game, they learn that reacting with anger is not a solution. Instead, they are encouraged to negotiate and express their feelings appropriately, thus enhancing their emotional intelligence.
Additionally, the mixed age setting allows for a diverse range of experiences and learning opportunities. For instance, older children may introduce younger ones to new games or activities, expanding their horizons and igniting their curiosity. This interactivity fosters a sense of belonging and community within the nursery. It also helps to build self-esteem as younger children feel valued and included in the play, while older children gain confidence in their role as leaders and teachers. Such interactions are critical in developing a child’s social skills and emotional resilience, as they learn to navigate the complexities of relationships.
Basically then, interactions with younger children and babies teach older children patience and responsibility. Interactions with older children provide a full-on learning experience for younger ones. They observe and emulate the play skills, language development, role-playing, and cooperation of their older peers. This dynamic not only enhances their social skills but also introduces them to collaborative play. A child’s ability to engage in role play with an older child can lead to breakthroughs in their own creativity and imagination. The concept aligns closely with Vygotsky’s ‘Zone of Proximal Development’, which underscores the importance of social interaction in learning and cognitive development. Through mixed age settings, children are encouraged to explore and learn at their own pace, while also benefiting from the knowledge and skills of their peers.
Surprisingly, there is one advantage for children’s development we in nursery have over family. In a family, if you are the eldest, you are always the eldest; if you are the youngest, you are always the youngest. In nursery, the dynamics shift; a child might start as the youngest but will eventually become the eldest, which offers an invaluable perspective on growth and responsibility. This transition can imbue a child with a sense of pride and accomplishment. As one pre-schooler said recently when she brought toys for a baby, ‘I like being his ‘tendy big sister you know cos he always smiles at me!’ This sentiment illustrates the bonds that form in mixed age settings, where older children take on mentorship roles. Such relationships foster empathy and compassion and help children develop leadership skills as they guide their younger peers through various activities, ultimately creating a supportive community atmosphere.