One of the most beautiful aspects of a Montessori education is the mixing of ages. Not only do our classrooms have mixed age groups, but at Haven we also have the advantage of all of our classrooms being under one roof, infants through 6th grade! We have implemented a Reading Buddies program which allows the oldest students in upper elementary to help younger students K-3rd grade practice reading. When reading to another child, the new readers often feel less intimidated and therefore more confident. The older students are so patient and encouraging, and it really helps to solidify their role as leaders of their school. For the upper elementary students, we have a sign up sheet for this program and it is always filled up as soon as it goes out! It is truly special to see the students supporting our younger friends in this way.