052: Guiding a Classroom with Fewer Older Students

As students get older, parents seem to become more inclined to pull their children out of Montessori programs. Especially when those classrooms have smaller groups of older students.  Parents often think that there are disadvantages to keeping their older children in this setting, but it’s actually quite the opposite: there are numerous benefits to older children in mixed-age classrooms.In today’s episode, I’m sharing the unique experiences offered by a mixed-age Montessori classroom, including how older children can mentor younger students, and develop leadership skills, problem-solving skills, and creativity, among other benefits. There are tremendous opportunities for older students in the Montessori school setting, and when teachers offer individualized lessons and activities, students of any age can thrive. What’s in this episode:The benefits of older children teaching and mentoring younger children in the classroomHow older children can be helpful when explaining big picture ideas to younger studentsWhy departing before the leadership year is a missed opportunity for older studentsHow to engage parents on the benefits of keeping their older students in this classroom environmentWhy it’s important to consider the individual needs of students when you have a small group of older children in your classroom, and how to create a positive learning experienceFor full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit:https://www.trilliummontessori.org/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:N/AConnect With UsVisit our websiteFollow us on InstagramConnect with us on FacebookThe Montessori Classroom Bootcamps will be open for enrollment July 21-29. Classes begin August 1.Elementary Classroom Planning Bootcamp for 6-12 with Letty RisingClassroom Setup Bootcamp for 3-6 with Seemi Abdullah