Multiage Groupings: A Viable Child Care Option.

INTERNATIONAL/INTERCULTURAL

As defined in its constitution, one of ACEI's goals is to promote desirable conditions, programs, and practices for children from infancy through early adolescence. The Ryerson Multiage Early Childhood Education Study (Phase One) was conducted between April 1996 and March 1999 to provide an overall understanding of how multiage grouping models can be used in group, licensed, early childhood settings in Canada. (In this study, the term "multiage groupings" refers to the placement of children of different ages together in activity and learning areas for substantial portions of the daily schedule.) In particular, the study focused on the inclusion of infants and toddlers with preschool children in licensed child care centers across Canada.

Recently, the number of multiage groupings in Canada has increased, and there are calls for even more. In the last 15 years, changes in the population's cultural and ethnic diversity, along with a move toward increased economic efficiency, have renewed questions about the quality of care and optimal grouping models for young children. Some advocates of multiage settings believe that they benefit centers with diverse populations because they are thought to be congenial to a family atmosphere, and to language and cultural preservation. Multiage groupings may also facilitate the inclusion of children with disabilities, or of diverse ability levels, although teachers will continue to need support and education.

In aboriginal populations, the notion of age-segregation for young children is problematic and can interfere with cultural teachings. Multiage groupings fit naturally with traditional aboriginal child-rearing patterns. In certain European countries, such as Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, the move toward multiage groupings has evolved as part of a growing effort to meet the needs of children and families and to promote interactions among children that stress the values of nonaggression, cooperation, and a sense of social responsibility.

The Ryerson study was designed to present an informed view of evolving multiage practices in child care centers in Canada. Decisions regarding multiage groupings are being considered in the context of maintaining the significant gains that have been made in the last decade, to ensure the provision of quality child care. Phase Two of the project, developing modules for the training of ECE personnel who are involved with the inclusion of infants and toddlers in multiage settings, is now underway. The field of early childhood education is very diverse, and it is always exciting to hear about innovative programs and practices from around the world, as there is so much we can learn from each other.

IN MEMORIAM 

Corrine Thomas

ACEI member and former kindergarten teacher Corrine Thomas passed away last August. Pursuing her lifelong interest in learning and education, Thomas taught various elementary grades in the Des Moines, Iowa, public schools. She went on to teach kindergarten at Conestoga Elementary in the Omaha, Nebraska, public schools for 20 years.

Thomas was an active ACEI member, serving as both Omaha Branch President and Nebraska State President. She also attended ACEI conferences in Switzerland and Australia.

Pat Johnson

We regret to report the passing of long-time member Pat Johnson. A member of the Louisiana State Branch, Johnson served her Branch in many capacities and helped to organize various regional and international meetings as well. Members who knew her well described Johnson as a faithful ACEI member.

James David Sexton 

ACEI is saddened to announce the death of David Sexton, a long-time member who has contributed to ACEI in many ways over the years. The Summer 2000 issue of the ACEI Exchange will feature a detailed memoriam to Mr. Sexton.

--Patricia Corson, International/Intercultural Committee