Why do Montessori classrooms Group different age levels together?

Grouping children of different ages encourages them to develop strong social and collaboration skills. In mixed age classrooms, the younger children learn from the older children, and the older children learn to serve as role models.

How do you teach mixed age groups?

Teaching Tips for Mixed Age Groups

1. 1) Set out open-ended activities.
2. 2) Put out materials that interest children and support them where they are and beyond.
3. 3) Encourage peer learning.

What are the benefits of mixed age classes?

Benefits of mixed-age classrooms

• Mixed-age classrooms mimic family structures and neighborhood groupings.
• Leadership increases among older children.
• Mixed-age classrooms stimulate each other’s development.
• Academics and social skills are improved for all children.
• Mixed-age classrooms can boost self-esteem.

What is a mixed age classroom?

Mixed-aged classes include children from two consecutive grades in one classroom. A mixed-age program allows each child to move through content and skill areas at their own pace, while teachers tailor instruction according to each student’s readiness level and ability.

Why do we use mixed age groups in Montessori for?

Another change that occurred was that children were grouped in multi-age classrooms, rather than having one age per class. Generally, Montessori age groupings are as follows: • Infant: birth – 18 months • Toddler: 18 months – 3 years

What are the benefits of mixed age classrooms?

Renowned psychologists, pedagogists, and educators have highlighted the importance of group learning benefits in mixed-age classrooms. The Montessori method of teaching, for instance, stresses that multi-age groupings can greatly benefit children. Here are some of the ways that multi-age grouping can benefit children.

What happens in a mixed age group environment?

Interaction: The mixed age group environment creates an atmosphere where children learn to help and be helped by other children, because they interact consistently with children whose age and abilities are varied.

Is it better to have mixed age groups?

Contrary to popular belief, age does not dictate social or academic developmental level, and it’s in fact more beneficial for children (even as early as preschool and kindergarten levels) to be exposed to mixed age groups throughout their social, intellectual, and emotional development.