The Benefits of Small Class Sizes

Smaller classes just sound better—but are they, really?

In Canada, class size has been top of mind the past few years with heated debates over class-size legislation in Ontario, BC, Alberta, and Manitoba.

Plenty of studies point to advantages for kids in smaller classes, but a lot of them aren’t super-scientific or they focus heavily on financial cost-benefit analysis. As a parent, I’m less interested in short-term costs than in long-term benefits for my kids. Will it help them enjoy learning, feel safe and supported, become confident and curious? Will they be happy? Studies are not as good at measuring these things.

But here’s what we do know about the effects of small class sizes.

Younger children benefit most from smaller classes.
After more than 30 years’ of research, this is pretty much undisputed. In the early years, kindergarten through Grade 3, kids in smaller classes have significant advantages—not just immediately, but into adulthood. They do better in math and language, they are more likely to go to university, and as adults, they earn more, save more, and live in better neighbourhoods.

For the full article, please visit: https://helpwevegotkids.com/national/article/education/yes-smaller-classes-are-better-for-some-kids/.