Why Do We Have Mixed-Age Classes at IMS?
One of the most striking features when you first enter a Montessori classroom, besides the special atmosphere, is the mix of ages within the same classroom. Children stay in the same environment for 3 years, sharing their space with children who are up to 3 years older when they start and three years younger when they finish the stage. But why does the mix of ages catch our attention so much? Does life segregate us by age? Do we group by age with our friends or at work? Mixed-age environments are a fundamental requirement in a Montessori school, and therefore, one of the most evident proofs to know if a school is truly working with the Montessori methodology. In our school, you will find the following environments:
- Nido: 4 months to 18 months
- Community Infantil: 18 months to 3 years
- Children’s House: 3 to 6 years
- Workshop I: 6 to 9 years
- Workshop II: 9 to 12 years
Next, we will list the reasons why at IMS our work environments have mixed ages.
- Fostering Cooperation vs. Competition: In a mixed-age environment, cooperation is encouraged over competition. Here each child progresses at their own learning pace, they do not compete over who washes their hands first or who completes an activity first, but rather a behavior of helping each other naturally emerges.
- Learning by Imitation and Modeling: Children learn from their guide and educators but also from their peers and will aspire to the achievements of others and be motivated to reach them. You will observe how they help each other to achieve their goals and how this environment naturally and spontaneously arises from the relationships that are forged between them.
- Benefits for Older Students: It may seem that mixed ages benefit the younger ones more, but beyond that, older children develop leadership skills, empathy, understanding, respect, responsibility, motivation… These skills are not learned from books, but through experience.
- Facilitates Adaptation: At least 2/3 of the students are already familiar with the classroom operation guidelines and feel secure, which fosters this environment among the newly arrived students.
- Three Years to Build Relationships: To create bonds, to feel secure and confident, to develop their skills, to challenge themselves, to establish intimacy with the guide and the educators, and for them to get to know each child and their needs.
At IMS, another way of educating is possible. Come and meet us.
