The Benefits of a Mixed-Age Group (2-5 Years) in an Early Learning Centre

At Small Sprouts, we embrace the natural learning opportunities that come from mixed-age groups. Our learning environment is designed to allow tamariki aged 2-5 years to interact, play, and grow together—just like they would in whānau settings. Mixed-age early learning environments provide a rich and dynamic experience where children can learn from and alongside each other, developing key social, emotional, and cognitive skills that set them up for success in school and beyond.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of a mixed-age group in early childhood education and how it fosters a sense of whanaungatanga (connectedness) and confidence in tamariki.

1. Tuakana-Teina Relationships: Learning from Each Other

In a mixed-age environment, children naturally form tuakana-teina relationships, a Māori concept where:

• Tuakana (older children) take on leadership roles, guiding and supporting younger peers.

• Teina (younger children) learn by observing and imitating the older tamariki.

 This creates a supportive, whānau-like atmosphere where children develop confidence, empathy, and responsibility.

💡 Example: An older child might help a younger one pour water into a cup, building self-help skills and fostering a sense of achievement for both.

2. Social & Emotional Development

Mixed-age settings encourage stronger social skills as children learn to communicate, cooperate, and problem-solve in a diverse group.

• Older children learn patience and leadership.

• Younger children feel supported and gain confidence.

• Tamariki develop greater emotional regulation through real-life interactions.

💡 Example: A 4-year-old might learn gentleness and patience when comforting a 2-year-old who is upset.

3. Reduced Pressure & Competition

In a same-age classroom, children can sometimes feel pressure to keep up with peers. In a mixed-age setting:

• Learning happens at each child's own pace.

• There’s less direct competition, making children feel more secure.

• They develop a strong sense of belonging as they progress naturally.

💡 Example: A child who isn’t ready to engage in structured activities can observe until they feel comfortable, rather than feeling rushed.

4. Richer Language & Communication Skills

Mixed-age groups provide more diverse conversations and exposure to different language levels.

• Younger children pick up new vocabulary from older tamariki.

• Older children develop storytelling and leadership skills as they guide their peers.

• Enhanced turn-taking, listening, and cooperation in conversations.

💡 Example: A 3-year-old listening to a 5-year-old explain how to build a sandcastle absorbs new words while learning through play.

5. Confidence & Leadership for Older Children

Older tamariki in a mixed-age group develop a natural sense of leadership.

• They proudly share their knowledge with younger children.

• They practice patience, kindness, and responsibility.

• This builds self-confidence and prepares them for school readiness.

💡 Example: A 5-year-old helping a 2-year-old zip up their jacket feels capable and valued for their skills.

6. Increased Sense of Community & Belonging

A mixed-age environment mirrors real-life family dynamics, creating a strong, nurturing community.

• Tamariki learn to care for and respect others across different ages.

• The centre becomes a home-like, inclusive space.

• Relationships are long-lasting, as children stay with the same group over time.

💡 Example: Siblings or close friends of different ages can stay together, strengthening whānau-style bonds.

7. School Readiness & Life Skills

By the time children transition to school, they have already developed:

• Self-help skills (dressing, serving food, tidying up)

• Confidence in social settings

• The ability to work with different age groups

• A strong sense of empathy and patience

💡 Example: A 5-year-old who has spent time mentoring younger tamariki is more likely to feel comfortable and confident in a school setting.

Why Small Sprouts Supports Mixed-Age Learning

At Small Sprouts, we see the benefits of mixed-age learning every day. Our tamariki:

• 🌱 Learn through real-life experiences in a diverse, whānau-like environment.

• 🌿 Develop confidence, empathy, and independence at their own pace.

• 🌍 Feel a deep sense of belonging, making early learning fun and engaging.

If you’d like to see how our mixed-age approach nurtures happy, capable learners, we’d love to invite you for a visit!