Small Group Size: Why Less is More in Early Childhood Education

Small group size is widely recognised as a key indicator of quality in early childhood education. At Manu Kindergarten, we intentionally keep our group to just 20 tamariki per day, one of the smallest group sizes you’ll find in the region.

Connected kids

We believe small group size makes a huge difference in children’s everyday experience at kindergarten. With fewer children, the environment feels calmer and less crowded. There is less noise and distraction, reducing sensory overload and stress.

For kaiako (teachers), it means having the capacity to really get to know each child. Having a small group allows kaiako to build genuine connections with both children and their families. When tamariki feel connected and calm, they are much better able to settle into their play.

Meaningful learning, not crowd control

Having a small group size at a centre gives kaiako greater capacity to slow down and provide intentional learning opportunities, instead of “crowd control” and managing behaviour. Research shows that having a smaller group of children can even boost language development, as it allows for more frequent opportunities for back and forth conversations between children and kaiako.

Developing friendships

A smaller group also supports friendships to grow naturally. Children have the time and space to build real connections with others and to develop a strong sense of belonging at kindergarten. Families also get to know one another and over time wonderful friendships often grow for both children and their whanau.

At Manu, we’ve chosen to stay small, even when larger group sizes are common, because we believe that it leads to better outcomes for children.