Multiage Questions and Answers

 

What constitutes a multiage classroom? 
A multiage classroom is not simply grouping children of different ages, but a philosophy toward education that takes into consideration the benefit of older and younger children learning from each other.  The philosophy recognizes the uneven development of children and is designed to be a reflection of settings found naturally in a child’s world, such as a family.

 

What are the benefits of a multiage classroom? 
The goal of grouping children of different ages and abilities in multiage classrooms is to optimize what can be learned through interactions.  The classroom is grounded in the belief that younger children learn from older children who possess more experience and knowledge.  Older children benefit through leadership opportunities and an increased understanding of skills and concepts as they model those skills to younger students. 

 

Social/Emotional Benefits: 
An older child is able to assume confidence as a leader in a class with younger children.  As an older child reminds a younger child of the rules and routines, their own self-regulation, or ability to control their behavior is strengthened. For the younger child, they are able to function at a higher social or cognitive level when assisted by peers, than they are able to independently.

 

Academic Benefits: 
Having multiple ages and abilities in the classroom contributes to the family-like atmosphere which creates a supportive structure for risk taking associated with learning.  Collaborative problem solving is another benefit.

 

Are multiage classrooms a fad? 
Actually, multiage classrooms have been championed since the early 1990’s by educators such as Maria Montessori, the founder of the Montessori Method of instruction, and John Dewey, who had a significant impact on education during the early 20^th century.

 

Will the day be structured differently in a multiage than in a single-age classroom?

Each teacher structures their day a little differently, but the elements are the same.  Both single-age and multiage classes will have interest centers, circle time, snack, recess, and music.  All classrooms will utilize whole group, small group, and individual time with the children.

 

Will multiage or single-age be more challenging for my child? 
We strive to challenge all the students in our classes, whether multiage or single-age.  With the advent of our new curriculum this year, we are placing more emphasis on assessment of individual children.  As our staff becomes more accustomed to ongoing assessment, they will be able to offer further challenges or assistance to children as needed in both our single-age and multiage classrooms.  The multiage classroom offers one more option for meeting the needs of the children of our community.