Seniors greatly enjoyed interacting with the Cabonne Family Day Care students.
Cabonne Family Day Care and Cabonne Home Support have embarked on an exciting new collaboration, bringing children and seniors together.
The first Senior Play Group was held on Monday this week, and although there were not many attendees, everybody who attended, both young and old, had an excellent time.
The seniors enjoyed watching the children play, giving the babies bottles, reading books and, of course, many cuddles. The room was filled with laughter and smiles as residents reminisced and told stories of their own children when they were young.
“The seniors and children had a great time together whilst enjoying a range of activities such as making music, puzzle drawing and much more,” said organisers.
Cabonne Family Day Care currently runs a fortnightly playgroup in St Edwards Hall during the school term, which is loved by young local families. Due to the amazing emotional and mental benefits of intergenerational friendships for both seniors and children, Cabonne Council are interested in running a playgroup with seniors once a month.
The importance of intergenerational activities has received recognition in recent years through programs such as ABC’s 4-year-old Elderly Home. Activities like this benefit both groups, allowing them to build relationships and maintain relationships with their communities.
During COVID, many elderly community members were unable to see their family, meaning they missed out on social interactions and relationships. Similarly, all of the children that attended the session were born during COVID lockdowns, missing out on many important social developments.
Co-ordinators would love to see more participants for the next session. If you are a senior and interested in future sessions, contact Cabonne Home Support on 6344 1199, or a parent with children interested in attending playgroup come along or contact Cabonne Family Day Care on 6362 3219 for more information.