When it comes to kids, what age group do you feel most comfortable working with?

[Titanic1912]

During VBS of 2017, I got assigned to work with the 5-6 year olds and I had so much fun working with them. The other two leaders for the other age groups were lousy. A 13 year old girl was a leader for the 7-8 year olds and they hardly learned anything. My 15 year old sister was a little harsh with the 9-12 year olds. My group won the award for having the best behavior. They were very cooperative and were always paying attention. I just had the time of my life working with those kids.

When I go to apply for a job as a kindergarten teacher, I'll be able to tell them that I have had experience working with kindergarteners.

5-6 year olds

7-8 year olds

9-12 year olds

Updates

+1 y

This past year, I was assigned to the same group. I had two of the same kids I had back in 2017 and the two new girls were so funny and one of them was very shy and scared the first night. I talked with her before the day started and told her that she was going to learn a lot, make new friends and have a lot of fun. At the end of the first day, she ended up being the smartest kid.

[stopTalkingatMe]

Not until at least 14 or 15. They suck in a classroom, but they're old enough to understand my bitter sarcastic humor. Given their adolescence, they're not too inclined to trust, respect, or value anything you say at first, but once you can make that connection, your class will be what they look forward to every day.

[ADFSDF1996]

I was a teacher assistant for a kindergarten teacher. I’ve noticed that certain 5-6 year olds actually behave better than several 9-12 year olds. Age doesn’t matter, I’m comfortable working with the ones that are well behaved and not one of those rebellious groups.

[ADFSDF1996]

Thanks for MHO.

[Titanic1912]

I worked with 9-12 year olds and they were so inappropriate a lot. I had to discipline them every time they messed up.

[Titanic1912]

The 5-6 year olds were so much easier. I never had to do much as raise my voice to them. They were so well behaved.

[StingRayxoxo]

I work with 7-8 year olds but I also like 5-6. Anything younger and you’re in diaper changing territory.

[_Emmie_]

Honestly, everyone will prefer a different age group. I think you'll find the numbers are fairly even.

[SunnyCaliGirl]

You forgot toddlers, I work well with any age. :) #LoveKids

[Phoenix98]

I usually work with people my own age or around it or older.

[AudreyB88]

All age groups.