Residents at Etheldred House Care Home in Histon were recently joined by children from the Wendy House Day Nursery for an afternoon of intergenerational fun.
The team working at Etheldred House regularly invite local schools and children’s groups into the home to take part in activities with residents, as everyone involved benefits from time spent with the other generation. For residents, spending time with children and being a part of their early learning provides a boost to wellbeing and fills them with self-purpose. Not only can they share some of their wisdom, but tell interesting stories from experiences they have lived through.
During this most recent session, the people living at Etheldred connected with the nursery children through a shared interest – arts and crafts activities. With the Autumn season in full swing, the group was encouraged to decorate different shapes with colours associated with the season – reds, browns, greens and yellows.
Whilst decorating the cardboard shapes, residents shared stories about this time of the year, including how Halloween has changed in their lifetime. Sam, who lives at Etheldred, also provided some entertainment by playing tunes on the piano that everyone could sing along to. It was a wonderful afternoon, and everyone enjoyed the activities and entertainment on offer.
Some wonderful friendships are starting to form between residents and the nursery children, which has proved especially beneficial for people who do not have grandchildren or younger children in their families.
This partnership will continue, and we hope to organise more enjoyable afternoons and see how these friendships blossom.