THE IMPORTANCE OF THE 1 to 6 RATIO
The National Guidelines for K-3 youth groups recommends a ratio of 1 adult to every 6 children in Clover Kids. This adult-child ratio is important to providing the best possible program for the children involved. I know meeting that ratio is very challenging - but here are a few reasons to consider trying:
1. Opportunities for individual attention - and interactions/bonding within the group are increased. Children experience A POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH A CARING ADULT.
2. Supervision/safety is increased. Children in grades K-3 are still learning to associate choices and consequences. They might not think through the results of their actions, so increasing supervision is important to provide a SAFE ENVIRONMENT.
3. Adults can provide the framework to actively include everyone in the process regardless of their individual skill levels. The 1 to 6 adult - child ratio provides the framework needed for an INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT.
4. Children are more likely to get and stay ENGAGED IN LEARNING when there is an interested adult involved in the process. That can be difficult when the ratio exceeds 6 children to every adult.
5. The OPPORTUNITIES to experience MASTERY, BELONGING, GENEROSITY, and INDEPENDENCE are increased when adults are involved to encourage, engage, and educate children.
6. Adults can create opportunities for children to evaluate their experiences, experience service to others, and build on successes for future learning.
WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL FOR YOU IN WORKING TOWARD THE 1:6 RATIO?