Australia

I like the part about multi age grouping best.

Don't Rush Kids' Lives Says Expert
By MADELINE HEALEY
March 7, 2006

PARENTS have been advised not to rush children's lives.

Early childhood education consultant Kathy Walker, the author of What's the Hurry, was in Warrnambool yesterday to share her tips on rearing children.

``We live in an overscheduled world where children are booked into many things all at once, children need to enjoy being at home and resting,'' Ms Walker said.

She also gave advice on how to tell when children were ready to go to school.

``The focus was trying to help parents respect teachers and understand the importance of school readiness,'' she said.

Ms Walker spoke at a conference on early childhood issues to those who work with young children in child care, preschool or primary schools and at a public meeting last night for parents.

Her handy hints to parents included advice to ``Chill out not time out'' and ``Take 5'', counting to themselves to calm down.

``They need to use consequences with children rather than punishment,'' she said.

She told child services workers there needed to be consistency between various child-care and education providers.

``We looked at how can child care, pre-school and schools work together for children and families so there's a consistent message,'' she said.

The concept of multi-age education was also discussed.

``Multi-age is when a school chooses to place together children of different ages so they can learn from a wider age range and benefit socially.

``It's not the same as composite classes,'' Ms Walker said.