Elizabeth House are establishing intergenerational links with the infants at Bognor Regis Nursery School.
The bond is growing stronger, as each week the neighbours meet up to take part in a wide range of activities; from passing giant balloons, dinosaur dancing to bubble games and lots more. These games are enjoyed by all.
Joe Knutson, the nursery’s headteacher, said the sessions had been so successful they had expanded from one to two groups of children and their families.
“Some of the nursery children’s parents who help facilitate the visits feel that their children are learning to be interested in older people and to be responsive towards them.
The friendship began during Christmas 2017, as Elizabeth House invited the local children and their parents to join them for their festive celebrations. From then on, the relationship bloomed as 135 children visit the home on a regular basis to sing, chat and take part in a variety of activities.
This partnership between young and old is so beneficial to the wellness and social skills for both age groups. Elizabeth House are delighted that the children visit regularly, the residents look forward to their weekly ‘activity sing song’ get together.
Mr Knutson added: “As the children’s confidence in a new environment has developed, staff from the nursery have noticed that children who would ordinarily find new experiences daunting have flourished and, over time, are actively able to participate and take a turn.”
Elizabeth House is enjoying developing new friendships within the local community. The manager Marian Drake actively encourage the residents to establish and maintain close links with their relatives, friends and the community.
