

A Word About Mixed-Ages

Early childhood educators have long promoted mixed-age groupings as the optimal learning environment for children under 5 years. In this setting, the little ones learn by watching and imitating the older children. The older children love being the “big kids” and showing the little ones how it’s done. Older children also have the opportunity to develop empathy, as they learn to adjust their behaviour to relate to younger children in the room. Additionally, not all children of the same age are at the same stage of music development. There are two factors at work here, both aptitude and experience.  Our family-style learning environment facilitates participation and involvement in the music for every child (and adult!), at whatever developmental stage they may be.