Choosing Between Same Age Child Care And Mixed Age Child Care

A play and learning environment with children of the same age bracket allows for them to interact on a similar level of development, and thus have the opportunity to learn off one another. The physical environment can then be set up to support and challenge the children in play; through the use of age specific games, toys and play equipment. In addition to this, staff knowledge and experience can be deepened by specifically working with one age bracket.
On the other hand, an environment in which children of a range of ages and developmental stages play and learn together offers other advantages. For many children, having the opportunity to play with those older and younger diversifies the types of interaction between the children. For example, you may find that a four-year-old takes on an assistive role during play with a three year old. Or a younger child might aspire to the achievements of the surrounding older children.
Mixed age groups can impose a higher level of demand and stress on staff, because they have to meet a range of learning needs. This means that toys from all developmental stages are in use, and some group activities would be too difficult or easy for children to follow. Other considerations for staff are bullying or dominance that some older children may display over younger children. In this situation, a higher staff ratio may be required so that activities can cater for a range of developmental stages and facilitate positive interactions between the children.