Eight pupils from Lent Rise Primary School spent time with residents at Nicholas House, Burnham this week, swapping stories and getting to know each other.
The children asked residents questions such as what’s your favourite activity here; whilst residents regaled the young visitors with stories from the past.
Michele Valimaa, Care Home Manager, commented “A lot of our residents are not mobile, and it is a real treat when youngsters visit from schools, brownies and choirs; they are all joyous sharing occasions; so this new connection is one we are very excited about.”
The aim of this new venture encourages young children to interact with residents and for the children to engage with caring for others and learn about the past. The overall objective is to generate enjoyment, learning and communication across the age groups.
The project is part of Learning and Sharing Together (LaST), an intergenerational programme that brings older people and children together for themed activity sessions, started by The Burnham Health Promotion Trust. For more information see www.learningandsharingtogether.org.uk
Research has shown the benefits of these visits to boost the wellbeing of both the elderly residents and the children.
Activities Coordinators Heidi Griffiths and Niki Hitchings spearheaded the project with the school, and class teacher Mr Waldeck, are all pleased with the outcome.
“The residents thoroughly enjoyed the children’s company there was a joyful atmosphere in the room and it was lovely to see the old and young chatting, sharing stories and laughing together.” Said Niki Hitchings.
Mr Waldeck, Teacher at Lent Rise Primary School, commented “it’s amazing for the children to experience the past through the people’s eyes who have actually lived it. One pair were talking about the Coronation of King George VI, and I was able to take out my phone and show photos of the occasion whilst it was talked about. This brings the past alive and is invaluable for our youngsters.”
Residents at Nicholas House and children at Lent Rise Primary School are very much looking forward to future events and projects together.
Abbeyfield Maidenhead Society, of which Nicholas House is part of, provides residential care on a permanent or respite basis.
If you are looking for a care home and want to find out more about our home visit, please contact us today.
