Multi-Age Classroom

Traditionally, schools group children by age. In any one classroom, children are usually all the same age, with the most significant gap in age being six months to a year. As a result, children learn the same material simultaneously, with a curriculum based upon the pace of the average student. Children may feel left behind if they struggle with a concept or are bored by repeating something they have already mastered.

Multi-age classrooms can encourage emotional well-being and boost self-esteem. Children in the same age group tend to compare themselves to one another. With a mixed-age group, the focus is on discovery and the joy of learning. Children can relax and enjoy the learning process without competing. Because each child is working at their own pace, they can focus on their own learning goals and progress.

Students in multi-age classrooms stimulate each other's development. There are benefits for both the younger and older child. In mixed-age classrooms, the younger children look up to the older ones as role models, and the older children look forward to the opportunity to be mentors. Specifically, watching and receiving lessons from more advanced students can inspire younger children. Older children also benefit from re-teaching because it reinforces the previously learned concept and moves them toward complete mastery; this is a well-researched phenomenon officially known as the "protégé effect." Research shows that older children often develop a mentor role in mixed-age classrooms, helping everyone practice pro-social behaviors such as sharing, supporting, and more. This mentorship role helps older children build self-confidence and leadership skills. A younger student can absorb social skills such as compromising, using polite words, and more from the older students.

Mixed-age classrooms mimic family structures and neighborhood groupings, better-preparing children for the "real world," in which they will interact with other people of various ages, experiences, and abilities.