Intergenerational Therapy at Holbeach Meadows

Last year, a local childminder was contacted to explore potential collaboration on an intergenerational therapy program at Holbeach Meadows. This childminder, along with several others in the area, had formed a network and held monthly meet-ups at a village hall. However, the hall was not an ideal location, so it was decided to trial these meetings at Holbeach Meadows. This new venue provided a much more homely environment for the children and facilitated the introduction of an international therapy program, inspired by the show “Old People’s Home for 4 Year Old’s.”

Residents eagerly come to the lounge to watch the children play, craft with them, and read to them. They delight in receiving toys from the children and becoming part of their games. Often, the residents bring out their instruments and sing nursery rhymes, which the children and residents enjoy together. The success of these sessions led to the childminders now visiting twice a month, with an average of 10-12 children, ranging from babies to four-year-old’s, attending with their childminders in the morning.

Additionally, a local preschool visits once a month during term time, engaging in similar activities as the childminder network.

Holbeach Meadows has invested in a tuff tray for crafting and messy play. Both groups bring toys, books, and crafts that align with their learning themes, corresponding with various times of the year and festivals. Together, they have created poppies, Christmas decorations, playdough snowflakes, and Easter baskets. The children enjoy a drink and a biscuit before leaving. The program has been highly successful, with residents’ faces lighting up when they see the children, bringing many smiles. The intergenerational interaction offers numerous benefits for both groups.

A particularly memorable moment occurred during the first session when a gentleman, usually not engaged in activities, came to the lounge, saw a room full of toddlers, and exclaimed, “This is wonderful,” shedding a tear of joy. He sat with the children, who eagerly showed him their toys, creating a special moment.