Do babies mix with older children in childcare?
It depends on the centre and learning environment. Some childcare centres have dedicated infant rooms, while others offer mixed-age settings where babies and older children spend time together under close supervision.
Both approaches can support children's development when they are designed to meet the needs of different age groups. In mixed-age environments, babies can observe and learn from older children, while older children develop empathy, patience and caring behaviours. Regardless of the setting, babies need spaces that support their unique routines, rest and wellbeing.
At BestStart, all centres provide dedicated infant sleep spaces, while learning and play environments may vary between centres. Some centres offer dedicated infant learning spaces, while others provide mixed-age environments. In all settings, babies are closely supervised and have access to spaces and experiences that support their age and stage of development, while ensuring interactions with older children are safe and appropriate.
Good to know
- Mixed-age environments can provide opportunities for younger children to observe and learn from older children, while older children develop empathy, leadership and caring behaviours.
- Mixed-age learning can support tuakana-teina relationships, where older children learn by supporting younger children and younger children benefit from observing and learning alongside older peers.
- Whether children are grouped by age or in mixed-age settings, learning experiences are planned to support each child's age, stage of development and individual needs.
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