Out in our outdoor play area, the building blocks became a centre for teamwork and creativity.
This week, our older children guided and supported our younger ones as they worked together to build a tall tower. The older children eagerly helped the littlest ones carry big blocks, holding the tower steady so everyone could have a turn adding their piece.
Whenever the tower wobbled or tumbled down, delighted voices rang out, “oh nooo!” - then everyone joined in to rebuild, showing resilience and a strong sense of teamwork. These moments highlight the strengths of a mixed-age environment.
Older children model problem-solving, kindness, and clear communication, while the younger children learn by watching and doing. Each “let’s try again!” invites new ideas, conversation, and connection. Children explore balance and design while building important cognitive and social-emotional skills outside together. These experiences highlight the strength of our mixed-age environment at BestStart Blenheim Central.
Older children are given the opportunity to act as leaders and role models, gaining confidence as they teach and support others. Younger children benefit from these caring relationships, learning at their own pace and knowing their efforts are valued.
Through teamwork, communication, and hands-on cognitive challenges, every child is supported holistically, building both their self-esteem and their ability to work with others.