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PACEY President Penny Tassoni answers a question from Kent childminder Val on caring for children of different ages.
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features of child development is that, as children become older, they will at times want to play independently of adults. They may want to engage in role play or construction with each other and so, at some points, when older children are playing independently, time can be used to meet some of the more specific needs of the younger children such as sharing a book or feeding a I have a complete mix of ages in my setting baby. It is important, though, to note – from those just crawling to those wanting to that while older children may be happily playing, it is essential that you maintain run around after school. How do I ensure that I develop the safety by being in sight and/or in a setting that is inclusive to all ages and stages? Any top hearing of every child. tips for managing the varying demands of children of Find some play opportunities that different ages would be very much appreciated. allow for children of different ages to come together. Playing with sensory materials, such as water and dough, work well as do musical games and activities, such as cooking or going to One of the advantages need a nap and so these times can the play park. For such opportunities for children who are with be used to carry out activities to work well, think about a childminder is that they and play with older ones resources that work across If you would like to can be with those of different ages. that may not otherwise be the age groups. The ask Penny a question There are huge benefits for children feasible or safe when classic stacking beaker and see your answer in a mixed age group as it creates a infants are there. In the set, for example, can be printed in the family feel. It allows older children same way, there will be used with babies, but magazine, email to feel “grown up” and responsible, times when older children also in a bucket of water. magazine@ while it encourages younger are tired, so it will be Finally, there will be pacey.org.uk children’s development. Having helpful to plan activities times when we will have to said that, it is not without logistical that do not require them to help children learn to challenges and it does require a be especially patient. compromise or show patience in good deal of juggling. It is also worth remembering that order that another child’s needs are One way to approach mixed age it is not necessary, or even desirable, met. Learning about “give and take” groups is to plan carefully around for all the children to be playing with within a safe and loving environment children’s level of needs, especially the same thing or doing the same is all part of children’s early education, tiredness. For babies and younger activity all the time. Inclusive does as they learn one of life’s greatest skills children, it is likely that they will not mean identical. One of the key – how to be with others.
Q
Penny says
pacey.org.uk
17_Ask Penny__PACEY Childcare Professional 17
Summer 2017
Hodder Education
A
17
04/07/2017 18:02
