Mixed Age Classrooms

Hey Jellisy

In my quest to finally choose a preschool for DD (I have no idea why this is taking me so long) I have a question about mixed age classrooms.  One of the Montessori Schools we are looking at has 3 classes of 24 children and each class is mixed ages.  DD is at an in home daycare which is naturally mixed ages, but she has been the oldest there for the last year and there are only 2 other children plus her brother so its a small group.

How do folks feel about mixed age classrooms?  When I observed the children they all seemed to be engaged and the teacher and aides seemed to be able to manage them well.  I just hadn't realized this was the way some classrooms worked.  I can see the advantages, the older students helping the younger and modeling better behavior and the older students learning compassion and helpfulness.  

I know the Montessori model is very child directed, it was odd to see a dozen different activities occurring in the classroom at the same time.  I'm used to the everyone doing the same thing at once model.    

I think this may just be me being all emotional about this transition.  I was fighting back tears observing the pre-schoolers.  They just seemed so big.  A part of me wants my DD to stay little and sweet forever.   

emack

I was a Montessori kid and DD is going to Montessori in the fall with a mixed-age classroom. I LOVED this format growing up and am so excited DD will have the same. The child-directed nature really encourages curiosity, independent learning, and embracing one's own interests and skills while developing new skills. I also think it develops a healthy maturity and collaborative efforts but I don't think it forces early growing up. I remember fondly being one of the younger kids when I was in kindergarten and that the older kids really looked out for me. I think Montessori has much to do with the fact that I've always loved learning, enjoyed school, and been comfortable in a variety of educational settings because it really started me out on a good foot.

This may not have answered all your questions, and I know Montessori schools are all different, but I do think it is an outstanding method for preschool. Also, when my DD transitioned to her toddler class at daycare in a same-aged class, I had the same feelings you did about growing up (taking walks, eating at a table, sleeping on a cot, and circle time seemed so grown up to me!), but it has been exciting for her and she is so proud of her own accomplishments. 

Artslvr

I've probably mentioned before that I'm a huge fan of Montessori, for all the reasons emack stated above.  I think the mixed age classrooms are great and I have not seen any disadvantages at all.

It IS very emotional seeing your little kid in preschool - trust me - I cried the first day DD #1 went to her Montessori school like most moms probably cry the first day of Kindergarten.  It's tough seeing them grow up!!!

workingmama

I loved being a Montessori kid and I think there is so much to learn for all ages from all of the other ages!