'As a mother who uses the centre, I am delighted that my daughter Rebecca (aged four and a half) is actively encouraged to mix with children in the younger age groups, including her brother Ben (aged two and a half). In another nursery where the children might not see each other all day, the opportunity for bonding may be denied them. Personally, I have found that it is often the case that the interaction developed during mixed age sessions is carried forward into the home, providing scope for further social and emotional development.
Throughout the day at BCC there are specific times when different age groups are brought together. Breakfast, lunch and snack times are very much 'family times' when all the children sit together chatting, sharing and helping each other. It is a key time for social development. It may be that siblings choose not to sit together but the opportunity is there.
'Gathering time' at the beginning or end of sessions at the BCC is also when groups of mixed ages can come together. Singing games and simple dances, for example, where babies bounce along, toddlers perform actions and pre-schoolers help lead the songs and dances, encourage all to be part of a larger 'family' group in responding to sounds and rhythms. Often parents collecting children during such sessions are drawn into the experience.
Siblings are also encouraged to visit each other during the day occasionally, but again, the children are free to choose not to do so. The visits are set up so that the differences in age do not adversely affect play and learning. The use of role play, dressing up and other imaginative play, for example, allows younger children to be confident when expressing their ideas and feelings, while older siblings can support them and help them explore the costumes and equipment. This also allows the older sibling to be confidently independent while assisting a younger sibling and their friends. As a consequence, older children take great delight in sharing skills with their younger sisters or brothers at home.
Different-aged children also mix together at library and story time. As well as developing language and communication skills, these activities offer the children the chance to share their experiences of a story. Children are encouraged to share their discoveries of interesting pictures, and older ones may discuss the story with younger children. Again, role play is a natural extension of this activity that can be extended at home.
Currently, within the BCC, there are only a few pairs of siblings who attend together. These children are given many opportunities to move between the baby, toddler and pre-school rooms as appropriate so that they can spend time with their brother or sister. For other children, who perhaps spend no other time in the company of children of different ages, mixed age situations are invaluable. They are exposed to the different abilities, interests and desires of other children and can become involved in helping and extending play for themselves and others. This not only helps them socialise with other children and adults when they are out with their own families, but gives them a real sense of 'family community' in which they develop self-esteem, self-confidence and personality.
Lack of resources and the restraints of legislation do not always make this type of interaction an easy option, but the children at Bishopbriggs Childcare Centre and others like it are reaping the rewards.'