Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/making-multi-age-groups-work/5012457/
The differences in abilities, skills, and interests in a multi-age group exude the feeling of a well- orchestrated symphony. Everyone belongs and has a significant role in creating the harmony in the room, while the caregiver, as conductor, establishes the rhythm.The caregiver's job changes significantly in a multi-age group. Planning for the "fours" is not useful, but planning for four-year-old Jessica is essential. The focus on each child's unique developmental needs drives the program.
Infant/Toddlers
Infant/toddler multi-age groups work best if the groups are small - a maximum of five children per caregiver with only two under 18 months old. The age span of the youngest children should ideally mimic nature - babies at least nine months apart in age (i.e., a three month old and a twelve month old), with the 18-36 month olds spread across that range.
Managing the day is made easier because all of the children are not awake and doing the same things at the same time. The infants are sleeping part of the time that the toddlers are playing, while the toddlers' naptime gives the caregiver the opportunity to give special attention to the babies.
At some point, everyone is awake. A calm environment, created by ...