Care provider introduces intergenerational playgroup
MELBOURNE: Children from defence families who live far away from their grandparents are being given the chance to interact with the elderly as part of a new intergenerational playgroup.
Hammondville mum Jess Warner came up with the idea while volunteering at HammondCare residential aged care, interacting with elderly residents.
“Just talking to them about their lives and how often they see their grandchildren … I could see there was an opportunity for them to be around some kids some more and it was obviously something I was passionate about,” Ms Warner, who has a background in early childhood education, said.
After approaching HammondCare with the idea, the mother-of-two reached out to local families through social media and connected with a group supporting defence families in the Holsworthy area.
In September, she kicked off the area’s first intergenerational playgroup.
During the two-hour session, children take part in interactive activities, storytelling and singing in the company of residents.
“Each fortnight it’s growing and it’s lovely,” Ms Warner said.
“(The residents are) very present when they’re there. They take the time to connect with them.”
She said it was a “fabulous opportunity” for children from defence families to interact with people of all ages.
“Generally they’re moving around a lot. Sometimes they’re in locations for only a couple of years.
“There’s so many benefits for everyone who attends this. It’s a beautiful interaction that bridges that gap of ageism.”
