It is hard hun, and I think that mother guilt sometimes makes us see problems that aren't there. TBH, a "postivie feel" is one of my top criteria for child care. It sounds to me like it would be worth a try at least for you. But I would still have an extended visit first, if for no other reason than to ease your mind a bit. Best of luck hun.
Family grouping has a lot of benefits. As Dachlo says, it's more natural. If you were looking after 7 kids on your own, would you pick seven 6 month olds, or a 6 month old, a 14 month old, two 2 year olds, a 3 year old and two 4 year olds?
Older kids learn a lot of responsibility from having these younger children around them all the time. Their own knowledge and understanding of their world is reinforced in sharing it with other children. Learning is in everything children do, and the centre no doubt bases their planned experiences on children's interests, so they will learn what they need to when they are ready. Like reading, or numbers.
It's actually a very forward-thinking philosophy, widely well-regarded in the early childhood industry. If you can get it, I really really think you should.
Mixed grouping is fantastic, the older children are great with the younger children and this also allows brothers and sisters be with each other. They should separate for music and group times as each age group has different needs. Go for it, it does work.
This is also a high quality area for accreditation.
Cathie
Life Subscriber
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks