One significant component of our philosophy at Happy Garden is that children learn best when in mixed-age groupings because they most closely duplicate what they might experience in their home environment where all members are provided with the opportunity to observe, emulate and initiate a wide range of competencies. We believe that the greater diversity of maturity and the wider the range of competencies present in a mixed-age group, as compared to a same-age group, provides a sufficient number of models to allow all participants to learn through participation, observation and cooperation.

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While younger children expand their opportunities to learn from the experiences, knowledge, and abilities of older peers, older children increase their level of independence and competence while developing their social awareness. Furthermore, older children view younger children as needing their help, whereas younger children perceive that older children can offer instruction and leadership. When these two forces combine in mixed-age classrooms, it creates an environment of cooperation, which is beneficial to all. 

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Happy Garden is a space where children are valued and respected and where they can freely explore their environment by playing and having fun with peers. A place where children’s needs are honored first and foremost and where the educator inspires, provokes, and constantly builds on the experiences that constantly unfold during daily activities.